Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a dessert that never fails to delight? A perfectly baked cheesecake is a classic that brings smiles all around. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a birthday, or simply a weekend treat, mastering the art of cheesecake making is a rewarding endeavor. Let’s dive into the world of creamy, dreamy cheesecake with this step-by-step recipe.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start baking, let’s make sure you have everything you need:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Once you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to blend them into a delightful cheesecake!
Step 2: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, and mix well. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, fold in the sour cream and all-purpose flour until fully combined.
Step 4: Bake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggles when you shake the pan. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking!
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely. When you’re ready to serve, top with your favorite fruits, chocolate sauce, or simply enjoy it plain!
Now you have a delicious cheesecake that’s perfect for any occasion. Get ready to savor every creamy bite!