Classic Cheesecake

Classic Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgent dessert, beloved for its creamy, smooth texture and rich, slightly tangy flavor. This iconic dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a velvety cream cheese filling that bakes to perfection. Simple yet elegant, it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions, and is a showstopper for any dessert table.

Its versatility allows for endless toppings and flavor variations, from fresh berries to chocolate ganache. Mastering this classic recipe ensures a reliably creamy, delicious cheesecake every time, making it a timeless favorite in the world of desserts.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced. The smooth cream cheese filling has just the right amount of sweetness and tang, while the buttery crust provides a satisfying crunch. Baking it slowly ensures a dense yet silky texture without cracks.

It’s versatile — you can top it with berries, caramel, chocolate, or enjoy it plain. Every bite is indulgent, comforting, and sophisticated, making it a dessert that impresses every time. There’s nothing more satisfying than slicing through the creamy center and serving a perfect piece to friends or family.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dessert

Classic cheesecake is a must-try because it’s timeless, versatile, and universally adored. Unlike lighter desserts, its creamy richness provides a decadent experience that’s perfect for celebrations or cozy indulgences. Once you master the classic version, you can customize it with countless toppings or flavorings.

Its impressive appearance and luxurious texture make it ideal for entertaining or special occasions. A perfect cheesecake can elevate any dessert table, making it a must-have recipe for every home baker.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Baking Time: 55–65 minutes
• Cooling & Chilling Time: 4 hours (preferably overnight)
• Total Time: 5–6 hours
• Servings: 12
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2/3 cup sour cream
• 2/3 cup heavy cream

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Chocolate ganache
• Caramel sauce
• Whipped cream

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare Filling: Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and heavy cream until creamy and smooth.
3. Assemble Cheesecake: Pour cream cheese filling over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Bake: Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan filled with hot water (water bath) to prevent cracks. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55–65 minutes, or until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.
5. Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven and leave cheesecake inside for 1 hour. Remove and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
6. Serve: Remove from springform pan and top with desired toppings before slicing and serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Step 1 – Prepare Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Cool.
2. Step 2 – Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
3. Step 3 – Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy.
4. Step 4 – Add Eggs: Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
5. Step 5 – Add Creams: Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
6. Step 6 – Pour and Smooth: Pour filling over cooled crust, smooth top.
7. Step 7 – Water Bath: Place cheesecake in water bath and bake 55–65 minutes.
8. Step 8 – Cool and Chill: Let cool in oven 1 hour, then refrigerate at least 4 hours.
9. Step 9 – Serve: Remove springform, add toppings, slice, and enjoy.

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How to Serve

Serve chilled, straight from the refrigerator. Top with fresh berries, fruit compote, chocolate ganache, caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. Cut into 12 even slices using a hot knife for clean slices. This cheesecake pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or dessert wine for a complete indulgent experience.

Recipe Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients to avoid lumps and cracks.
• A water bath prevents cracks and ensures even baking.
• Avoid overbaking; the center should slightly jiggle when done.
• Run a hot knife around slices for clean cuts.
• Let cheesecake chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.

Variations

1. Chocolate Cheesecake: Add melted chocolate to the cream cheese mixture.
2. Strawberry Swirl: Swirl in strawberry puree before baking.
3. Pumpkin Cheesecake: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spices for a fall version.
4. Lemon Cheesecake: Add lemon zest and juice for a refreshing twist.
5. Oreo Cheesecake: Add crushed Oreos to the crust and swirl into the filling.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2–3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch springform pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Large roasting pan (for water bath)

Conclusion

Classic Cheesecake is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert that never goes out of style. With a buttery crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and endless topping possibilities, it’s perfect for celebrations, holidays, or any special occasion. Mastering this recipe guarantees a consistently decadent dessert that impresses family and friends alike. Its luxurious texture, balance of sweetness and tang, and versatility make it a timeless favorite in any dessert repertoire.

Classic Cheesecake

Classic Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgent dessert, beloved for its creamy, smooth texture and rich, slightly tangy flavor.

Author: Stella Parker Cuisine: American Course: Desserts

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Prep Time 25 mins Cook Time 5 hrs Total Time 5 hrs 25 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 12

Ingredients

Servings

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 (8-ounce)
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• ²⁄₃ cup sour cream
• ²⁄₃ cup heavy cream

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Chocolate ganache
• Caramel sauce
• Whipped cream

Instructions

1. Prepare Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare Filling: Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and heavy cream until creamy and smooth.
3. Assemble Cheesecake: Pour cream cheese filling over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Bake: Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan filled with hot water (water bath) to prevent cracks. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55–65 minutes, or until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.
5. Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven and leave cheesecake inside for 1 hour. Remove and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
6. Serve: Remove from springform pan and top with desired toppings before slicing and serving.

Keywords: Classic Cheesecake