Italian Cheesecake Recipe
Cream Cheese and Ricotta Cheesecake, Graham Cracker Crust, Sweetened Sour Cream Glaze
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Ingredients
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Crust
Cheesecake Filling
Sour Cream Glaze
Method
Crust
- 1
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- 2
Form the Crust
Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to make it compact and even.
- 3
Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool while preparing the filling.
Cheesecake Filling
- 4
Mix the Cream Cheese and Ricotta
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the ricotta cheese and mix until well combined.
- 5
Add Sugar and Flavorings
Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Then add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing until smooth.
- 6
Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- 7
Pour into the Crust
Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- 8
Bake the Cheesecake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually.
Sour Cream Glaze
- 9
Prepare the Glaze
In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- 10
Glaze the Cheesecake
Spread the sour cream glaze over the top of the cheesecake once it has cooled. Smooth it out evenly.
- 11
Chill the Cheesecake
Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.

