Classic Cheesecake Recipe
Description
Indulge in the creamy, rich taste of this classic cheesecake thatโs perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or simply treating yourself. This cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and velvety cream cheese filling, and a lightly sweetened sour cream topping. Follow this simple recipe to achieve that decadent, bakery-quality cheesecake right at home.
Recipe Details
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 50 minutes |
| Category | Cheesecake |
| Servings | 24 slices |
| Calories | 237.7 kcal per slice |
| Keywords | Dessert, Cheese, For Large Groups, Oven, Easy |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Graham Cracker Crumbs | 1 1/4 cups |
| Sugar (for crust) | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 1/2 cup, melted |
| Cream Cheese | 24 oz (three 8-oz packages), softened |
| Sugar (for filling) | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 5 large, room temperature |
| Almond Flavoring | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Sour Cream | 1 1/2 cups |
| Sugar (for topping) | 6 tablespoons |
| Almond Flavoring | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 237.7 kcal |
| Fat | 17.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 87.6 mg |
| Sodium | 172.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 16.5 g |
| Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugar | 14.3 g |
| Protein | 3.6 g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 300ยฐF (150ยฐC).
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/2 cup melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are thoroughly coated and hold together when pressed.
- Form Crust: Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×12-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly to cover the entire base. Press down firmly to compact the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This step will set the crust, giving it a slightly crisp texture. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream the Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat 24 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Add the Sugar and Flavoring: Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons of almond flavoring, blending until well incorporated.
- Add the Eggs: Add 5 eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. This gradual addition helps to ensure a smooth batter without overbeating, which can prevent cracks.
- Pour Filling into Crust: Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Return the pan to the oven and bake at 300ยฐF for 1 hour. The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when done. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes before adding the topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of almond flavoring, and 6 tablespoons of sugar. Add the sugar one tablespoon at a time, tasting as you go to achieve a perfectly balanced sweetness.
- Spread Topping Over Cheesecake: Gently spread the sour cream mixture over the warm cheesecake, creating an even layer.
- Bake Again: Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes at 300ยฐF. This step sets the sour cream topping, giving it a velvety texture.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cool Completely: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature in the pan.
- Chill: Once cooled, cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, allowing the flavors to fully develop and the texture to set.
- Slice and Serve: When ready to serve, slice into 24 pieces. Enjoy each creamy, rich slice of this classic cheesecake with family or friends.
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