Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 and 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon of salt
For the Filling:
4 packages (8 oz each) of cream cheese, softened
1 and 1/4 cups of granulated sugar
1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract
1 cup of sour cream
4 large eggs, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. For the crust, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Use a fork to mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth out the crust and create an even layer.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
5. For the filling, beat the cream cheese and sugar in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
6. Add the flour and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
7. Add the sour cream and mix again until smooth.
8. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
9. Pour the filling into the cooled crust, and use a spatula to smooth out the top.
10. Bake the cheesecake for 45-55 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
11. Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for at least an hour.
12. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
13. Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
14. When you’re ready to serve, run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the pan. Release the sides of the springform pan and slide the cheesecake onto a serving plate.
15. Garnish with whipped cream, fresh berries, or chocolate shavings, and enjoy!
Tips:
– Be sure to use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps and bumps in the filling.
– Scrape the sides of the bowl often to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
– Use room temperature eggs to prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
– Do not overmix the batter after adding the eggs to avoid incorporating too much air.
– Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar to prevent cracks.
– Chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours before serving to allow it to set properly.
In conclusion, making a cheesecake from scratch is not as difficult as it may seem. With a little patience, attention to detail, and love, anyone can create a delicious and impressive dessert that will impress their family and friends.