Description
This classic vanilla cheesecake is rich, creamy, and smooth with a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you enjoy it plain or topped with fresh berries, caramel, or chocolate. This foolproof recipe includes step-by-step instructions to ensure a perfectly baked cheesecake every time—no cracks, no fuss, just pure indulgence!
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for stability)
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.Make the Filling
Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar on low speed until smooth. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour. Mix until combined.Add the Eggs
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles.Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the filling over the crust. Place the springform pan in a water bath (wrap the bottom in foil and set it in a larger pan with 1 inch of hot water). Bake for 60–70 minutes or until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.Cool the Cheesecake
Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour with the door slightly open. Then, transfer it to the counter before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan. Slice and serve plain or with toppings like fresh berries, caramel, or whipped cream.
Notes
- Use full-fat ingredients for the creamiest texture.
- Prevent cracks by using a water bath and cooling the cheesecake slowly.
- Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan; the center should slightly jiggle.
- For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free cookies for the crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: vanilla cheesecake, classic cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, easy cheesecake recipe