Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 3 8-ounce packages of cream cheese
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly onto the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Place the springform pan with the cheesecake batter in the preheated oven. Bake for about 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This slow cooling process helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface.
Step 4: Refrigerate and Serve
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling process not only enhances the flavor but also gives the cheesecake a perfect firm yet creamy texture. Before serving, run a knife around the edges to loosen the cheesecake from the pan, then release the springform pan sides.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
- Make sure all the ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before beginning.
- Avoid overmixing the batter; it could result in a dense and heavy cheesecake.
- Using a water bath can help prevent cracks on the surface of the cheesecake.
- Experiment with different crust variations, like using crushed cookies or nuts, to add a unique twist to your cheesecake.
Now that you have conquered the art of making the perfect cheesecake, it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor. Serve it plain, or get creative with toppings such as fresh fruit, chocolate ganache, or caramel sauce. Get ready for compliments and requests for the recipe! Happy baking!