Description
This classic cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust and a rich, creamy filling, topped with a smooth sour cream layer and fresh berries. Perfect for any occasion, it’s baked to perfection and chilled for a delightful dessert experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup sour cream (for topping)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for topping)
- Fresh berries or fruit compote for garnish
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon (if using). Mix until the crumbs are well coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring it is tightly packed.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined.
- Add the sour cream, all-purpose flour, and lemon juice, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- To prevent cracks, wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil and place it in a larger baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake the cheesecake for about 1 hour, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and the water bath, letting it cool at room temperature for another 30 minutes.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the topping over the chilled cheesecake and garnish with fresh berries or fruit compote before serving.
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Notes
- For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
- You can customize the topping with your favorite fruits or sauces.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes