There’s nothing quite like a rich, creamy homemade cheesecake. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, this classic dessert is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 32 oz (4 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for added tang)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
- Stir in the sour cream, flour, and lemon juice (if using) until the batter is smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
- Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set.
- Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before serving.
- Slice and enjoy with your favorite toppings like fresh berries, caramel, or whipped cream.
This homemade cheesecake is the perfect balance of creamy and sweet, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Enjoy!
