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 prepare for baking the cheesecake at a gentle, consistent heat.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even crust layer.
- Prepare the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together using a mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, mixing gently after each addition to prevent overmixing while ensuring a smooth batter.
- Incorporate Sour Cream and Vanilla: Stir in the sour cream and vanilla bean paste thoroughly until combined, adding richness and a delicate vanilla flavor.
- Assemble: Pour the filling mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is slightly set but still jiggles gently when the pan is moved. This ensures a creamy texture.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually at room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours to fully set and develop its flavors before serving.
Notes
- Use a water bath (bain-marie) during baking to help prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface.
- Let the cheesecake cool slowly and gradually to avoid sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian