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Homemade Creamy Cheesecake Recipe photo

Creamy Cheesecake Recipe

This Creamy Cheesecake is an indulgent treat! With a velvety filling and buttery crust, it’s perfect for any celebration.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.25 cups confectioner's sugar
  • 7 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
For the Filling:
  • 2 pounds cream cheese softened
  • 3 units eggs room temperature
  • 0.5 cups sugar
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1.5 cups thick sour cream
  • 2 tbsp sugar for topping
  • 0.5 tsp fresh lemon juice for topping
  • Berries, pie filling, chocolate, or caramel sauce optional toppings

Equipment

  • Springform Pan
  • Electric mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven thermometer
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Crust - Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, confectioner's sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
  2. Step 2: Make the Filling - 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. Gradually add in the sugar and mix until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  3. Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings - Add the room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Then, add the lemon juice and a pinch of salt, mixing until everything is well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
  4. Step 4: Incorporate the Sour Cream - Gently fold in the thick sour cream until the mixture is smooth. This will give your cheesecake its creamy texture.
  5. Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake - Pour the cream cheese filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour. This helps prevent cracking.
  6. Step 6: Prepare the Topping - While the cheesecake is cooling, whisk together the sour cream, sugar, and lemon juice in a separate bowl until smooth. Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the top.
  7. Step 7: Chill - Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.
  8. Step 8: Serve - When you're ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Top with your choice of berries, pie filling, chocolate, or caramel sauce, and slice into pieces. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
  • Chill the cheesecake overnight for the best flavor.
  • Don't skip the cooling step to prevent cracks.