Who doesn’t love cheesecake? With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s no wonder this dessert has become a staple in bakeries and households around the world. If you’re a cheesecake lover like we are, you’ll want to keep reading for a recipe that will knock your socks off!
First, let’s talk a little bit about the history of cheesecake. While the exact origins of cheesecake are unclear, it is believed to have been created in ancient Greece. The recipe has evolved over time, with variations popping up in different cultures and regions.
Today, cheesecake comes in many different flavors and styles. There’s the classic New York-style cheesecake, which is dense and creamy, and the lighter, fluffier Japanese-style cheesecake. You can also find cheesecakes with fruit toppings, chocolate swirls, and even savory flavors like goat cheese and herbs.
But for this cheesecake recipe, we’re going to keep it classic with a traditional New York-style cheesecake. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/3 cup sour cream
Pinch of salt
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 8 x 3″ round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing well after each addition.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl between each addition.
- Stir in the sour cream until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared crust and smooth out the top.
- Bake the cheesecake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set.
- Turn off the oven and crack open the door slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
- Add your favorite toppings, we’ve outlined our fan favorites below for inspiration!
- Chill the cheesecake in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled.
Serve and enjoy!
This recipe is perfect for those who want to make a smaller cheesecake. It still has all the rich, creamy goodness of a classic New York-style cheesecake, but with fewer servings. Whether you top it with fresh berries, caramel sauce, or just enjoy it plain, you won’t be able to resist.
So go ahead, indulge in a slice (or two) of this classic dessert. Your taste buds will thank you!
Fan Favorite Cheesecake toppings:
- Fresh fruit (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or peaches)
- Fruit compote (cherry, raspberry, or blueberry)
- Chocolate ganache or fudge sauce
- Caramel sauce
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts (such as pecans or almonds)
- Cookie crumbs
- Lemon curd
- Marshmallow fluff
- Dulce de leche
- Hazelnut spread
- Coconut flakes
- Honey or agave syrup
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Peanut butter sauce or peanut butter cups
- Jam or preserves (such as strawberry or raspberry)
- Spiced apples or apple pie filling
- Melted chocolate chips or chocolate shavings
- Espresso or coffee drizzle
- Candied bacon or maple syrup.
We’re listening, tell us YOUR favorite cheesecake topping in the comments!