Introduction
This creamy and rich cheesecake is simple to make with a smooth texture and delicious flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it's an effortless yet impressive dessert!
Ingredients
200g graham crackers, crushed
100g unsalted butter, melted
600g cream cheese, softened
150g granulated sugar
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
200ml sour cream
2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 8 servings
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 160°C (325°F). Grease a 23cm (9-inch) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press firmly into the base of the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and flour until just combined.
5. Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly wobbly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door ajar for 1 hour.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
8. Slice and enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 160°C (325°F). Prepare a 23cm (9-inch) springform pan by greasing it. Line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers with melted unsalted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the base of the prepared springform pan. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat 600g of softened cream cheese along with 150g of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add 2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Add 2 large eggs to the cream cheese mixture, one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition to keep the mixture smooth.
Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in 200ml of sour cream and 2 tablespoon of all-purpose flour until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a light texture.
Step 6: Combine and Smooth the Filling
Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake
Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. The center should be set but have a slight wobble.
Step 8: Cool in the Oven
After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour. This gently cools the cheesecake and helps prevent cracking.
Step 9: Chill Before Serving
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.
Step 10: Slice and Enjoy
Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice it into portions, and serve. Enjoy this creamy treat!
Notes
Note 1: Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
Note 2: Crust Variations
You can substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits or other cookies for different flavors.
Note 3: Topping Suggestions
Consider garnishing the cheesecake with fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Note 4: Storage
The cheesecake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Freezing
If you want to keep the cheesecake for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishes
Top your cheesecake with fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor. You could also add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel for extra sweetness.
Accompaniments
Serve the cheesecake with whipped cream on the side, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. A cup of coffee or tea complements the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1 slice, approx. 100g)
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 250mg
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 17g
Protein: 5g
Ingredient Substitutions
Graham Crackers
If graham crackers are unavailable, you can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies. For a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour.
Unsalted Butter
In place of unsalted butter, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a non-dairy option.
Cream Cheese
For a lighter version, use Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese. Vegan cream cheese is also an option for a dairy-free cheesecake.
Sour Cream
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or dairy-free yogurt if preferred.
Granulated Sugar
For a lower sugar option, use coconut sugar, honey, or a sugar substitute like erythritol. Adjust the quantity according to the sweetness level you desire.
All-Purpose Flour
If you need a gluten-free alternative, almond flour or coconut flour can replace all-purpose flour in this recipe.
Cook Techniques
Pressing the Crust
Ensure the crushed graham crackers are mixed thoroughly with the melted butter before pressing firmly into the base of the pan. This creates a solid foundation for your cheesecake.
Mixing Ingredients
When mixing cream cheese and sugar, beat until smooth to avoid lumps. Incorporate the eggs one at a time on low speed to maintain a creamy texture.
Baking
Bake the cheesecake until the center is set but slightly wobbly. This will ensure it remains creamy and doesn’t become overcooked.
Cooling in the Oven
Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven with the door ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracks on the surface.
Chilling
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and enhance the flavors.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits or Oreo cookies for a different flavor.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake should be set around the edges but slightly wobbly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
Can I add toppings to the cheesecake?
Absolutely! Fresh fruits, chocolate ganache, or caramel sauce make great toppings.
What should I do if cracks appear on the surface?
Cracks can be minimized by cooling the cheesecake gradually and avoiding overbaking. If cracks do occur, a topping can help disguise them.
How long can I store the cheesecake in the refrigerator?
The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
This easy cheesecake recipe delivers a decadent dessert that's not only simple to prepare but also satisfies all cravings for something creamy and rich. With a delightful graham cracker crust and a smooth filling that's perfect for any occasion, this cheesecake is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy it as is or customize it with your favorite toppings!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Fruit Topped Cheesecake
Top your cheesecake with a variety of fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi for a refreshing twist.
Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake
Melt some chocolate and swirl it into the cream cheese mixture before baking for a rich chocolate flavor.
Lemon Cheesecake
Add lemon zest and juice to the filling for a zesty and refreshing lemon cheesecake that's perfect for warmer months.
Caramel Pecan Cheesecake
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with toasted pecans for a sweet and nutty addition.
Pumpkin Cheesecake
Mix in canned pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a seasonal favorite that's especially popular around the holidays.
Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake
Incorporate matcha powder into the filling for a unique flavor and vibrant green color, appealing to matcha lovers.
Nut Butter Cheesecake
Blend in your choice of nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, to add a delicious, nutty flavor to your cheesecake.
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