Cheesecake Recipe

Cheesecake is a delightful dessert with a smooth and creamy filling on a buttery crust. This recipe is perfect for beginners and ensures a delicious, classic cheesecake. Here’s a detailed guide to making the perfect cheesecake at home:

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs: About 10-12 full sheets
• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter: Melted

For the Filling:

• 4 (8-ounce) packages Cream Cheese: Softened
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 cup Sour Cream: Room temperature
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 4 large Eggs: Room temperature

For the Topping (Optional):

• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Equipment:

• 9-inch Springform Pan
• Mixing Bowls
• Electric Mixer: Stand or hand mixer
• Spatula
• Baking Sheet: To catch any drips
• Oven: Preheated to 325°F (163°C)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan and Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
   • Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
   • In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan to form an even layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a glass to press the crust down evenly.
   • Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
   • Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition just until blended. Do not overmix to avoid incorporating too much air.
3. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
   • Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
   • Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake in the preheated oven for 55-70 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center is still slightly jiggly.
4. Cool and Chill:
   • Remove the cheesecake from the oven and run a knife around the edge to loosen it from the sides of the pan. This helps prevent cracks as it cools.
   • Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
   • Once cooled, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
5. Prepare the Optional Topping:
   • If you’d like to add a sour cream topping, mix together the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl.
   • Spread the topping over the chilled cheesecake and return it to the refrigerator for another hour before serving.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the sides of the springform pan before serving.
   • Slice the cheesecake with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between each cut for neat slices.
   • Serve plain or with your favorite toppings such as fresh berries, fruit compote, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.

Tips for Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the filling on low speed to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
• Water Bath (Optional): For a perfectly smooth and crack-free cheesecake, consider baking it in a water bath. Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks, then place it in a larger pan filled with about 1 inch of hot water.

Variations:

• Chocolate Cheesecake: Add 1 cup of melted and cooled chocolate to the cream cheese mixture before adding the eggs.
• Lemon Cheesecake: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the filling for a tangy twist.
• Berry Swirl Cheesecake: Swirl in 1/2 cup of your favorite berry sauce into the filling before baking.

This beginner-friendly cheesecake recipe is perfect for any occasion, providing a rich, creamy, and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every smooth and delightful bite!