Classic Cream Cheese Cake
There’s something timeless about a Classic Cream Cheese Cake — its rich, velvety texture and delicate balance of sweetness and tang make it a dessert that never goes out of style. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, luscious cream cheese filling, this cheesecake is pure indulgence in every bite. Whether served plain or topped with fresh berries, fruit compote, or a drizzle of chocolate, it’s the kind of dessert that turns any occasion into something special.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, finely crushed)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 4 (8 oz / 225g each) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240g) sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, helps stabilize)
For the topping (optional):
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
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Instructions
1.
Prepare the crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
2.
Make the filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add sugar and beat until creamy and well combined.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition (do not overmix).
- If using, add flour and mix gently until incorporated.
3.
Bake the cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
- Place the pan in a water bath (wrap the bottom of the pan in foil and place it inside a larger pan filled with about 1 inch of hot water).
- Bake for 1 hour 10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
4.
Optional sour cream topping
- Mix sour cream, sugar, and vanilla together.
- Spread over the cooled cheesecake and bake for an additional 10 minutes at 325°F (160°C).
5.
Chill and serve
- Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Run a knife around the edges before releasing from the pan.
- Slice and serve chilled with fresh berries, fruit sauce, or a drizzle of caramel.
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Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze (whole or sliced) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.