Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 76 reviews

A rich and creamy vanilla bean cheesecake featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and delicate vanilla flavor, perfect for special occasions or elegant desserts.

  • Total Time: 5 hours
  • Yield: 8–10 slices

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ½ cup butter (melted)

For the Filling:

  • 3 (8 oz) cream cheese blocks (softened)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the cheesecake evenly.
  2. Prepare Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even crust layer.
  3. Make Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, making sure there are no lumps.
  4. Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, mixing gently to avoid overbeating and creating excess air.
  5. Mix in Sour Cream and Vanilla: Stir in the sour cream and vanilla bean paste until thoroughly combined, enhancing the creamy texture and vanilla flavor.
  6. Assemble: Pour the prepared filling evenly over the graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes until the center is slightly set but still jiggles a bit when moved, which ensures a creamy texture.
  8. Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually to room temperature to prevent cracking, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set before serving.

Notes

  • Use a water bath during baking to help prevent cracking by maintaining even, gentle heat around the cheesecake.
  • Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly at room temperature before refrigerating to minimize surface cracks.
  • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smoother, lump-free filling.
  • Use a springform pan for easy removal of the cheesecake without damage.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian