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Classic Cheesecake

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This classic cheesecake is rich, creamy, and smooth with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any special occasion.

  • Author: daniel-kim
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 75 minutes
  • Total Time: 425 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 5 Tablespoons (71g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 32 ounces (904g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240g) full-fat sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional)
  • 3 large eggs

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
  2. Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and the melted butter. Stir until evenly moistened and press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
  3. Beat the cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice if using. Mix until incorporated.
  5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.
  6. Prepare the water bath: Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil and place it in a larger roasting pan. Pour in 1 inch of hot water.
  7. Bake the cheesecake: Pour the batter over the crust and bake for 55 to 70 minutes until set at the edges.
  8. Cool gradually in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar.
  9. Finish cooling and chill at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and avoid over-mixing after adding eggs.

Nutrition