Description
This classic Philadelphia Cheesecake offers a rich and creamy texture with a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly baked to achieve a smooth, velvety filling, it’s an iconic American dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 4 packages (8 oz each) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan creating an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly while you make the filling.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened Philadelphia cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add 1 cup of sugar and the vanilla extract, and continue to beat until fully combined and no lumps remain. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended after each addition to avoid overmixing.
- Add remaining ingredients: Gently fold in the sour cream and all-purpose flour, mixing until the filling is smooth and uniform in texture without overbeating.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 minutes, or until the cheesecake’s center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking and help set the texture.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set and enhance the flavors before serving.
Notes
- For best results, bring all ingredients to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Top your cheesecake with fresh berries or a fruit sauce of your choice before serving for added flavor and presentation.
