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The Best Cheesecake Recipe

The Best Cheesecake Recipe


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4.6 from 22 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Smooth, creamy New York-style cheesecake promises pure indulgence with its silky texture and rich flavor profile. Delicate graham cracker crust and velvety cream cheese filling create a luxurious dessert that delights senses and satisfies sweet cravings in every delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 (8 ounces/226 grams) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 ¼ cups (250 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) sour cream

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour

Optional Toppings:

  • Fresh fruit or fruit compote
  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate ganache
  • Crushed cookies or candy

Instructions

  1. Meticulously prepare a 9-inch springform pan by applying a light butter coating or positioning parchment paper at the base. Heat the oven to a precise 325F (165C).
  2. Craft the foundation by thoroughly blending graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until uniformly integrated. Press the mixture compactly into the pan’s bottom, creating a sturdy base. Quickly toast the crust for 8-10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
  3. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and sugar together until achieving a velvety, aerated consistency. Gently incorporate eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully absorbed before adding the next.
  4. Delicately fold in sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour, maintaining a gentle touch to preserve the mixture’s delicate texture. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense, tough cheesecake.
  5. Cascade the silky batter over the cooled crust, distributing it evenly with smooth, deliberate motions. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes.
  6. Monitor the cheesecake’s progress: edges should appear set while the center retains a subtle wobble. Once achieved, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar, allowing the cheesecake to gradually cool for one hour.
  7. Extract the cheesecake and permit it to reach room temperature naturally. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to achieve optimal firmness and flavor development.
  8. When ready to serve, carefully release the springform pan’s clasp. Transfer the cheesecake to an elegant serving plate, embellish with preferred toppings, and slice into perfect portions.

Notes

  • Prevent Cracks by Gently Handling the Batter: Mix ingredients at room temperature and avoid overmixing to create a smooth, crack-free cheesecake surface.
  • Create Water Bath Protection: Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish filled with hot water during baking to ensure even, gentle heat distribution and prevent surface cracking.
  • Adapt for Dietary Needs: Substitute graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Enhance Flavor Variations: Experiment with different mix-ins like lemon zest, chocolate chips, or swirl in fruit preserves to personalize the classic cheesecake recipe.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 403
  • Sugar: 29 g
  • Sodium: 298 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg