Description
This Creamy Baked Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, rich cream cheese filling with hints of vanilla and luscious sour cream and heavy cream for extra creaminess. Baked to perfection and cooled gently in the oven before chilling, it results in a silky, decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking your cheesecake.
- Prepare Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust. Set aside.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in vanilla extract thoroughly to incorporate flavor.
- Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a smooth texture.
- Mix in Creams: Blend in sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Pour Batter: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 55-70 minutes until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly, and the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill: Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving to fully set.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for the smoothest batter.
- Do not overmix after adding eggs to avoid introducing too much air, which can cause cracks.
- Cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven helps minimize cracking.
- Chilling overnight improves flavor and texture.
- To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, ensure it is pressed firmly and fully covered by the filling.
