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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the cheesecake evenly.
- 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.
- Make Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, making sure there are no lumps.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, mixing gently to avoid overbeating and creating excess air.
- 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.
- Assemble: Pour the prepared filling evenly over the graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian