Welcome to Dessert Hub! Today, we're sharing a timeless favorite that never fails to impress—Classic Cheesecake. This creamy, smooth, and rich dessert is perfect for any occasion. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a cheesecake that's sure to delight your taste buds and wow your guests.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Topping (Optional)
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Whipped cream
- Berry compote
Instructions
Preparing the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and ¼ cup of sugar.
- Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press down firmly.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Making the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add 1 cup of sugar, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Mix in the sour cream and flour until smooth and well blended.
Assembling and Baking
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
- After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and run a knife around the edge to loosen it from the sides of the pan. Let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set completely.
Serving
- Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
- Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or berry compote if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious, homemade classic cheesecake!
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth and creamy filling.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath for an even gentler cooking process and a crack-free top.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually to prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.
We hope you enjoy this classic cheesecake recipe. For more delightful dessert recipes, tips, and inspiration, stay tuned to Dessert Hub!