Description
This Best Easy Cheesecake recipe features a creamy, smooth cheesecake with a classic graham cracker crust. Perfectly baked to a slightly jiggly center and rich texture, it’s a delicious dessert that can be garnished in many ways to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it well or lining the bottom with parchment paper for easy release.
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling: Using a hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined to avoid incorporating too much air. Then fold in the sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open, leaving the cheesecake inside to cool gradually for 1 hour, which helps prevent cracking. Then remove from the oven, let it come to room temperature, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set.
- Serve: Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake before unlocking and removing the springform pan. Slice carefully and garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, or drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid cracks in the cheesecake.
- Using a water bath is optional but can help prevent cracking and ensure even baking.
- Chill the cheesecake for best texture and flavor; overnight refrigeration is recommended.
- To make slicing easier, warm the knife in hot water and wipe between cuts.
