Description
Classic vanilla cheesecake brings creamy indulgence to dessert tables with its rich, velvety texture. Silky layers of cream cheese and vanilla create a luxurious experience you’ll savor with each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 (8 ounces) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Crust Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
Finishing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lightly greasing the surface and preheat the oven to 325F (160C).
- Create the crust by thoroughly mixing graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, then firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the pan. Refrigerate to set the base.
- Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese until completely smooth, gradually incorporating sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Gently fold in vanilla extract, ensuring even distribution throughout the cream cheese mixture.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing carefully after each addition to maintain a silky texture. Blend in sour cream until the filling becomes uniform and creamy.
- Carefully transfer the cheesecake mixture over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, watching for a slightly wobbly center which indicates perfect doneness. The edges should be set while the middle retains a gentle jiggle.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature, which helps prevent cracking and ensures a smooth texture.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set and flavors to develop fully before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps and create a silky smooth texture.
- Wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during baking, protecting the delicate crust.
- Gently tap the pan on the counter after mixing to release any air bubbles, resulting in a crack-free cheesecake surface.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg