Description
This Easy Cheesecake Recipe delivers a rich, creamy dessert with minimal effort. Made with a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth cream cheese filling, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup sugar and beat until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla and sour cream until smooth.
- Pour filling over crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is almost set (it should still jiggle slightly).
- Turn off oven, crack the door open, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve plain or with your favorite topping.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- A water bath helps prevent cracks, but this recipe works well without one too.
- Top with fresh berries, caramel sauce, or chocolate ganache for variation.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: easy cheesecake, classic cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, baked cheesecake, dessert, make-ahead dessert