Creamy Cheesecake
Master a rich and smooth Creamy Cheesecake with this easy, foolproof recipe that combines velvety textures and a subtle sweet tang. Perfect for bakers of all levels, this timeless dessert uses simple pantry ingredients and offers customizable variations to delight every palate.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free crust substitution)
Filling
- 24 oz (680g) Cream Cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) Sour Cream
- 1 cup (200g) Granulated Sugar
- 3 large Eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) Graham Crackers or Digestive Biscuits, crushed
- 6 tbsp (85g) Butter, melted
- Prepare the Crust: Crush the graham crackers or digestive biscuits into fine crumbs. Melt the butter and combine thoroughly with the crumbs until evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even, compact base. Chill the crust while preparing the filling to help it set.
- Mix the Cream Cheese Filling: Beat the room-temperature cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps for a velvety texture. Gradually add granulated sugar and mix until fully combined. Add sour cream and vanilla extract for smoothness and aroma. Finally, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks during baking.
- Bake with Care: Pour the creamy filling over the chilled crust and gently spread it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C), ideally using a water bath to maintain moisture and prevent cracks. Bake until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center, about 50-60 minutes.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and firm up to the perfect creamy consistency.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter free of lumps.
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface.
- Use a water bath when baking to maintain moisture and avoid cracking.
- Cool the cheesecake gradually and chill thoroughly for optimal texture.
- Run a knife around the edge after baking to prevent cracks while cooling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Creamy Cheesecake, dessert, baking, smooth cheesecake, easy cheesecake recipe, homemade cheesecake