Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCafe AthensCheese Cake Recipe

Cheese Cake Recipe

Inspired by Cafe Athens
Time4h
Serves8

Served with fresh strawberries.

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Ingredients

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Crust

Method

Crust

  1. 1

    Prepare the crust

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.

  2. 2

    Form the crust

    Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Make sure to pack it tightly to hold its shape. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool.

Filling

  1. 3

    Prepare the filling

    In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the granulated sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing well.

  2. 4

    Incorporate the eggs

    Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can introduce too much air into the filling.

  3. 5

    Bake the cheesecake

    Pour the filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-60 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually.

  4. 6

    Chill the cheesecake

    Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Topping

  1. 7

    Prepare the strawberries

    Wash and hull the fresh strawberries. Slice them if desired. In a bowl, sprinkle with granulated sugar and gently toss to coat. Let sit for about 15 minutes to allow the juices to release.

  2. 8

    Serve

    Once the cheesecake is chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan. Top with the macerated strawberries just before serving.

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