cheese cake recipe
Today, we're going to make a cheesecake to remember. This is an impressively tall New York-style cheesecake. The texture is incredible, and it doesn't get any easier than this. If you've never made a homemade cheesecake, you are in for a treat, and you're going to love the homemade cherry topping.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins
Chill Time 6 hours hrs
Total Time 7 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Slices
Calories 420 kcal
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups 180g graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup 55g unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon optional for a subtle warmth
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 8-ounce / 227g each blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup 200g granulated sugar
- ½ cup 120g sour cream, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 3 large eggs room temperature
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until the mixture feels like wet sand.
Press the crumbs evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and slightly up the sides.
Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool while preparing the filling.
Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add sugar, sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice; beat until well combined.
Add eggs one at a time on low speed, just until incorporated. Avoid over-mixing to prevent cracks.
Assemble & Bake
Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Place the cheesecake in the center of the oven and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly wobbles.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 30 minutes to cool gradually.
Chill & Serve
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature for 1 hour.
Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best texture.
Slice with a warm knife for clean pieces. Serve as is, or top with fresh berries, chocolate drizzle, or caramel sauce.
Tips for Perfection:
- Bring all ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
- Use a whisk attachment for a smoother filling.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter before baking to remove air bubbles.
- Avoid rushing the chilling process gradual cooling prevents cracks.