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The Best Cheesecake Recipe

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Total Time: approximately 7 hours (including cooling and chilling)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A smooth and creamy cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

  • 32 ounces (four 8-ounce packages) cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust:
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt.
    • Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer.
    • Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the filling:
    • Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and flour on medium speed until smooth, about 1 minute.
    • Add the vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt, mixing until combined.
    • On low speed, add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
    • Gently fold in the sour cream until the batter is uniform.
  3. Bake the cheesecake:
    • Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top.
    • Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
    • Place the pan in a large roasting pan and add hot water until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
    • Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
  4. Cool and chill:
    • Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool inside for 1 hour.
    • Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and foil, then let it cool completely at room temperature.
    • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling.
  • To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter and use a water bath during baking.
  • For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.