Cheesecake has always been my go-to comfort dessert, and I’ve discovered that this recipe is truly the best cheesecake recipe out there. I remember the first time I successfully made a homemade cheesecake; the creamy texture and rich, tangy flavor filled my kitchen with an irresistible aroma. It’s surprisingly simple to master how to make cheesecake without any fuss. This classic baked cheesecake is so wonderfully smooth and decadent, you’ll feel like a gourmet baker. Get ready to impress everyone – let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake Recipe

This cheesecake is a winner for so many reasons! Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

The taste is absolutely divine – incredibly creamy and rich, with that perfect tangy sweetness.
It’s a surprisingly easy cheesecake recipe, perfect for beginners.
You get that amazing homemade cheesecake flavor without the usual stress.
The prep time is minimal, making it a fantastic weeknight treat.
It’s budget-friendly, using common ingredients you likely already have.
This is a truly family-friendly dessert that everyone will adore.
It’s a truly easy cheesecake recipe that delivers gourmet results every time.
It’s a wonderful cream cheese dessert that feels indulgent but is quite simple to whip up.

Ingredients for the Best Cheesecake

Gather these simple components for a truly delightful cream cheese dessert. You’ll need:

1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs – the base for our crust
4 tablespoons granulated sugar – to sweeten the crust
5 tablespoons melted butter – binds the crust together
40 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature) – the star of the show, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar – for that classic sweet cheesecake flavor
1/2 cup sour cream (at room temperature) – adds a lovely tang and extra creaminess
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – essential for that comforting aroma and taste
4 large eggs (at room temperature) – they bind everything together for a perfect set
Any desired cheesecake toppings – like fresh berries or a chocolate drizzle

How to Make Homemade Cheesecake

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the oven racks in the center position.
Step 2: Prepare the crust by combining 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs, 4 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 5 tablespoons melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and about halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake this crust for 7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Reduce your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). In a large bowl, or using a stand mixer, cream the 40 ounces cream cheese for about 30 seconds until it’s completely smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix again until everything is just well incorporated.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, crack all 4 large eggs and whisk them until they are well beaten. With your mixer on the lowest speed, slowly pour the beaten eggs into the cream cheese mixture. Stop mixing as soon as everything is smoothly combined. Make sure to scrape down any remaining lumps from the sides of the bowl.
Step 5: Once your batter is smooth and lump-free, gently tap the bowl on the counter for about 30-45 seconds. This helps release any trapped air bubbles, a key among our cheesecake baking tips. Pour the filling into the center of your prepared crust, smoothing out the top as needed for an even surface on your baked cheesecake.
Step 6: Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 250°F (120°C) and continue baking for an additional 45 minutes.
Step 7: After baking, turn off the oven completely but leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for another 30 minutes. This gradual cooling is crucial. Then, carefully remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, which usually takes about 3-4 hours.
Step 8: Once at room temperature, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until it’s completely chilled, which typically takes at least 6 hours or preferably overnight. For the cleanest slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wipe dry before each cut. Enjoy your delicious homemade creation!

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Cheesecake

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure this cheesecake turns out perfectly creamy and delicious every single time. Follow these tips and you’ll be a cheesecake pro!

Always use room temperature cream cheese and eggs. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free batter and prevents overmixing.
Don’t overmix the batter once the eggs are added. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
Cool the cheesecake gradually. Taking it out of the oven too soon can cause it to sink or crack.
Chill it thoroughly! This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set up perfectly, making it a truly decadent creamy cheesecake dessert.

The Best Cheesecake Recipe is Easy - Cheesecake - additional detail

What’s the secret to perfect creamy cheesecake?

The real secret to that incredibly smooth, creamy cheesecake dessert texture lies in using room temperature ingredients and avoiding overmixing once the eggs are in. Gentle mixing is key!

Can I make this cheesecake recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake recipe is fantastic made a day in advance. Once it’s completely cooled and chilled, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It’s even better the next day!

How do I avoid common mistakes with cheesecake baking?

To avoid cracks, don’t overmix the batter and cool the cheesecake gradually. For a dense, unappealing texture, resist the urge to overbeat the cream cheese or eggs. For more baking tips, check out these baking tips.

Best Ways to Serve Your Classic Cheesecake

Once your glorious homemade cheesecake is perfectly chilled, it’s time for the best part – serving it up! My favorite way to enjoy a slice is simply plain, letting that rich, tangy flavor shine through. However, if you’re feeling a bit fancy, a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a scattering of vibrant berries like raspberries or blueberries make for beautiful presentation and a lovely contrast in flavors. For those who love a bit of decadence, explore some amazing cheesecake frosting ideas! A swirl of caramel or a drizzle of rich ganache can elevate this dessert to gourmet status. This versatile dessert truly shines no matter how you choose to adorn it. You can find inspiration for dessert toppings here.

Nutrition Facts for This Creamy Cheesecake Dessert

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this delightful cheesecake:

Calories: 410
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: <1g
Sugar: 27g
Sodium: 290mg
Cholesterol: 135mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes used. For more information on general nutrition, you can refer to the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesecake

Properly storing your delicious homemade cheesecake is key to enjoying it later. After it has completely cooled to room temperature, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, this incredible dessert recipes cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you want to reheat a slice, you can do so gently in the microwave on low power for about 15-20 seconds, or in a low oven (around 250°F/120°C) for a few minutes until just warmed through. Learn more about food storage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Cheesecake

What is cheesecake?

Essentially, cheesecake is a sweet dessert made with a base of soft cheese, most commonly cream cheese. It’s often mixed with eggs and sugar, then baked in a crust made from crushed cookies or graham crackers. It’s a beloved cream cheese dessert known for its dense, smooth, and rich texture.

Can I make a no-bake cheesecake recipe with this method?

This particular recipe is designed for a baked cheesecake, which gives it that classic dense and creamy texture. While you can find wonderful no-bake cheesecake recipes, they typically involve gelatin or other setting agents instead of eggs and baking to achieve their consistency. This recipe focuses on the delightful results of traditional baking. For other dessert ideas, explore dessert recipes.

What are some other cheesecake variations I can try?

The possibilities for cheesecake are endless! You could try a decadent chocolate cheesecake recipe by adding melted chocolate to the batter, or a fruity twist with a vibrant strawberry cheesecake recipe swirled in or topped on. Other popular variations include adding espresso, caramel, or even cookie pieces directly into the batter for a truly unique dessert experience.

How do I ensure my cheesecake doesn’t crack?

Cracking often happens due to overmixing or sudden temperature changes. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, don’t overbeat the batter once the eggs are added, and cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven. Tapping the bowl to release air bubbles also helps!

Cheesecake Variations You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered this classic cheesecake, you’ll want to explore all the delicious ways to customize it! The beauty of this dessert is its versatility. For a rich, decadent treat, consider a chocolate cheesecake recipe by incorporating melted dark chocolate into the cream cheese mixture or swirling in a rich chocolate ganache. If you’re craving something fruity, a vibrant strawberry cheesecake recipe is always a hit; simply swirl in some strawberry puree or top your cooled cheesecake with fresh macerated strawberries. You could also try adding a hint of espresso powder for a coffee-flavored delight or even folding in some chopped cookies for a cookies-and-cream twist. Experimenting with these variations makes every cheesecake experience unique and exciting! Check out more recipe ideas.

The Best Cheesecake Recipe is Easy

Author: Ennas Lopez
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 12 slices 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This is the Best Cheesecake Recipe you’ve ever come across! With just seven simple ingredients and no water bath required, this recipe guarantees a creamy, rich cheesecake without cracking. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dessert night. Impress your family and friends with this fail-proof classic that will leave them wanting more!

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
4 tablespoons granulated sugar
5 tablespoons melted butter
40 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream (at room temperature)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 large eggs (at room temperature)
Any desired cheesecake toppings

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and position the racks in the center.
Prepare the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 7 minutes, then remove from oven and set aside.
Reduce oven temperature to 325°F. In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix cream cheese for about 30 seconds until smooth. Scrape down the sides and add granulated sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix again until well incorporated.
In a separate bowl, crack all four eggs and whisk them until well beaten. With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour in the eggs into the cream cheese mixture. Stop mixing once everything is combined smoothly. Scrape down any remaining lumps if necessary.
Once your batter is smooth, tap the bowl gently on the counter for about 30-45 seconds to release air bubbles. Pour filling into the center of your prepared crust, smoothing out the top as needed.
Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes. Reduce temperature to 250°F and continue baking for an additional 45 minutes.
After baking, turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside for another 30 minutes. Open the door slightly to allow cooling for one hour before removing from the oven.
Bring cheesecake to room temperature (3-4 hours) before covering with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until completely chilled (6 hours to overnight). Slice with a warm knife and enjoy.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent cracks.
Tap the bowl on the counter to release air bubbles.
Cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven.
Chill thoroughly for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 410
Sugar: 27g
Sodium: 290mg
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: <1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 135mg

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