Cheesecake Recipe

DESSERTS

1. 1

   Prepare oven and pan

   Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom with foil to prevent leaks. Place a parchment circle in the bottom if desired.

2. 2

   Make crust

   In a bowl, combine Graham cracker crumbs (1.5 cups), 2 tablespoons sugar, and 6 tablespoons melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom and about 1 inch up the sides of the prepared pan. Set aside.

3. 3

   Bake crust

   Bake crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool while you prepare the filling. If the crust puffs, gently press it down with the back of a spoon after cooling.

4. 4

   Beat cream cheese

   In a large mixer or bowl, beat 4 cups softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.

5. 5

   Sweeten filling

   With the mixer on low, gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar to the cream cheese, beating until fully incorporated and light in color.

6. 6

   Add sour cream and vanilla

   Add 1 cup sour cream and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined and smooth.

7. 7

   Add eggs

   Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until incorporated. Do not overmix to keep the cake from cracking. Pour filling over the crust in the pan.

8. 8

   Bake filling

   Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until the center barely jiggles when the pan is gently nudged. The edges should be set and slightly puffed.

9. 9

   Cool gradually

   Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking from a sudden temperature change. Then remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature on a rack.

10. 10

    Chill

    Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until completely cold. When ready to serve, run a knife around the edge and release the springform pan.