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The Best Easy Cheesecake Recipe

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4.1 from 35 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

Description

This easy cheesecake recipe features a creamy, smooth filling on a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it yields a classic dessert that can be customized with your favorite toppings like berries, caramel sauce, chocolate chips, lemon curd, or whipped cream.

Ingredients

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 graham cracker sheets)
  • 4 Tbsp granulated sugar
  • 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Filling

  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Toppings

  • Berries
  • Caramel sauce
  • Chocolate chips
  • Lemon curd
  • Whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the cheesecake crust and filling evenly.
  2. Prepare graham cracker crumbs. Using a food processor, pulse graham cracker sheets until they resemble fine crumbs, creating the base texture for the crust.
  3. Mix crust ingredients. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter to the graham cracker crumbs in the food processor and pulse until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.
  4. Form the crust. Pour the graham cracker mixture into your baking dish, pressing it firmly into the bottom and up the sides to create an even crust layer. Set aside.
  5. Beat cream cheese. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese on low speed for 5 to 10 seconds until smooth and creamy.
  6. Add sugar and vanilla. Gradually add granulated sugar while mixing on low speed, scraping the bowl sides as needed, then mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
  7. Incorporate eggs. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition and scraping down the bowl to ensure an even, silky batter without lumps.
  8. Pour batter over crust. Evenly spread the cheesecake filling over the prepared graham cracker crust in the baking dish.
  9. Bake the cheesecake. Bake for 22-25 minutes, typically around 24 minutes, until the center jiggles slightly when the dish is gently shaken, indicating it is set but still creamy.
  10. Cool cheesecake gradually. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 45 to 60 minutes to prevent cracks and ensure even cooling.
  11. Cool to room temperature. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool it on the counter until it reaches room temperature.
  12. Chill in refrigerator. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to allow it to fully set and develop the best texture.
  13. Serve. Cut into servings and top with your choice of berries, caramel sauce, chocolate chips, lemon curd, or whipped cream.
  14. Store leftovers. Refrigerate any leftover cheesecake to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth batter.
  • Do not overbake; the center should jiggle slightly to prevent dryness.
  • Gradual cooling in the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface.
  • Chilling overnight enhances flavor and texture.
  • Use a springform pan for easier removal if available.
  • Customize with toppings to suit your personal taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://kitchenloving.com/the-best-easy-cheesecake-recipe/