Description
Rich and velvety cheesecake with a buttery crust that offers endless possibilities for customization.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a medium bowl, pressing firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even layer.
- Beat the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth and free of lumps.
- Add in the granulated sugar gradually, mixing until well incorporated.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently to maintain airiness; then stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice if using.
- Pour the filling over the crust, smoothing the top.
- Bake for approximately 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly inside to help prevent cracking.
- Refrigerate for at least four hours before serving to allow flavors to develop.
Notes
For a creamier texture, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Overmixing can lead to cracks in the cheesecake during baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: cheesecake, dessert, creamy, rich, baking