Introduction
Classic Creamy Cheesecake
This classic creamy cheesecake recipe is a timeless dessert, perfect for any occasion. With a smooth and rich texture and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Graham crackers
225g, crushed
Unsalted butter
115g, melted
Cream cheese
900g, softened
Granulated sugar
250g
Large eggs
3
Sour cream
125 ml
Heavy cream
60 ml
Vanilla extract
1 tbsp
Fresh lemon juice
15 ml
All-purpose flour
15g
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time:
60 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 20 minutes
Yield:
12 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 160°C and prepare a 23 cm springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until fully combined.
6. Add the flour and mix until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
7. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight wobble.
9. Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open slightly. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
10. Refrigerate the cooled cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results before serving.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F). This will create the perfect environment for your cheesecake to bake evenly. While the oven heats, prepare a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper to facilitate easy removal of the cheesecake later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine 225g of crushed graham crackers with 115g of melted unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating a solid crust. Ensure it’s evenly spread to provide a sturdy base for your cheesecake.
Step 3: Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together 900g of softened cream cheese and 250g of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Add 3 large eggs to the cream cheese mixture, one at a time. Mix well after each addition to maintain a smooth consistency. This step is crucial, as it helps incorporate air into the batter for a lighter texture.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Flavorings
Gently stir in 125 ml of sour cream, 60 ml of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and 15 ml of fresh lemon juice. Blend until fully combined, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Step 6: Add Flour
To finish the filling, sprinkle in 15g of all-purpose flour. Mix until just incorporated—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cheesecake.
Step 7: Pour the Batter
Pour the rich cheesecake batter over the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top, making it flat for even baking.
Step 8: Bake
Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set while the center will have a slight wobble. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
Step 9: Cool in Oven
After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps to prevent cracks from forming on the surface.
Step 10: Refrigerate
Once cooled, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time firms up the cheesecake and enhances the flavor.
Notes
Crust Texture
For a firmer crust, consider chilling the crust in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before adding the cheesecake batter.
Cheesecake Consistency
The cheesecake is best when allowed to set overnight. This resting period allows flavors to deepen and improves the texture.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your cheesecake experience, consider serving it with fresh berries, a fruit coulis, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a festive touch, whipped cream and a sprinkle of grated lemon zest make delightful garnishes.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Cook Techniques
Crust Preparation
To achieve a perfectly crisp and buttery graham cracker crust, ensure the graham crackers are finely crushed and mixed thoroughly with the melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the pan to create a solid base that holds its shape during baking.
Mixing Cream Cheese
When mixing cream cheese, it’s essential to have it softened to room temperature for a smooth consistency. Beat it with granulated sugar until creamy, ensuring there are no lumps, which contributes to the cheesecake’s overall texture.
Adding Eggs
Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, mixing well after each addition. This technique helps maintain the emulsion, resulting in a smoother batter without overmixing.
Incorporating Other Ingredients
When adding sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, mix until just combined. This technique prevents overmixing, which can introduce air into the batter and lead to cracking.
Baking and Cooling
Bake the cheesecake until the edges are set but the center remains slightly wobbly. Following baking, turning off the oven and leaving the door ajar allows for slow cooling, which minimizes the risk of cracking.
FAQ
Can I use other types of crust for my cheesecake?
Yes, you can use other types of cookies or graham crackers, such as Oreos or digestive biscuits, to create different flavors and textures for the crust.
Why does my cheesecake crack on top?
Cracking often occurs due to overmixing or rapid temperature changes. Following proper cooling techniques, like leaving the cheesecake in the oven after baking, can help prevent this.
How can I tell when the cheesecake is done baking?
The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight wobble. It will continue to set as it cools.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cheesecake is best made in advance as it requires several hours to chill. Overnight refrigeration enhances the flavors and texture.
What can I serve with cheesecake?
Cheesecake pairs well with fresh fruit, fruit compotes, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream for added flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
The classic creamy cheesecake is a delightful dessert that never fails to impress. Its rich, velvety texture and harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors make it a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether you serve it at gatherings, special occasions, or enjoy it as a sweet treat after a meal, this cheesecake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a decadent dessert that showcases your baking skills while satisfying your sweet tooth.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Berry Topping
Add a fresh berry topping using strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Simply macerate the berries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice, then spoon them over the cheesecake before serving.
Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake
Incorporate a rich chocolate flavor by swirling melted dark chocolate into the cheesecake batter before baking. This creates a deliciously decadent chocolate and cream cheese combination.
Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake
Mix fresh raspberries and lemon zest into the batter for a zesty twist. Top with a lemon raspberry coulis for an extra burst of flavor.
Caramel Pecan Cheesecake
Add chopped pecans to the crust and drizzle caramel sauce over the top after baking. This adds a rich, toasty flavor and a delightful crunch to your cheesecake.
Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake
Incorporate matcha powder into the batter for a unique flavor and vibrant color. Serve with a light dusting of matcha on top for an elegant presentation.
Nutella Cheesecake
Swirl Nutella into the batter or use it as a topping to create a rich, chocolate-hazelnut cheesecake. This intense flavor will be a hit with chocolate lovers.
Salted Caramel Cheesecake
Drizzle your cheesecake with homemade salted caramel sauce for a sweet and salty contrast that enhances the creamy texture beautifully.
