Ultimate Cheesecake: The Creamiest, Most Indulgent Recipe

Name: Ultimate Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 5 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 1 cup sugar; 4 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Cheesecake lovers, rejoice! This Ultimate Cheesecake recipe is the quintessential dessert that strikes the perfect balance of rich creaminess and delicate sweetness. Its velvety smooth texture melts in your mouth, while the buttery graham cracker crust provides a satisfying crunch. The aroma of baking cheesecake fills your kitchen with warmth and anticipation, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or family gatherings. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday feast, or simply a delightful treat after a long day, this cheesecake will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

So roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up this delectable dessert that is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

2 cups graham cracker crumbs: These provide the perfect base and crunch for your cheesecake crust.
1/2 cup butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the crumbs together for a cohesive crust.
1 cup sugar: Sweetens the filling, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.
4 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient that gives the cheesecake its creamy texture.
4 large eggs: Help set the filling and contribute to the cheesecake’s smoothness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that elevates the overall taste.
1 cup sour cream: Contributes tanginess and creaminess to the cheesecake, enhancing its depth of flavor.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the filling, giving it the perfect texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking.
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust, ensuring it is even.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them into the mixture.
Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until everything is well combined and smooth.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, then crack the door open to let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
After cooling, remove it from the oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Servings: 12
Calories: Approximately 350 per slice

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tip: For a smoother batter, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
Variations: Add a fruity twist by mixing in fresh berries or making a berry compote to serve on top. Alternatively, a swirl of chocolate or caramel can create a delightful flavor combination.

FAQ

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may result in a slightly different texture.
What should I do if cracks form on the cheesecake?
Avoid overbaking and allow it to cool slowly in the oven. If cracks form, you can cover them with a topping like sour cream or a fruit sauce.
How long does the cheesecake need to chill?
It is best to refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, but overnight is preferable for optimal texture and flavor.
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, the crust can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Yes, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed nuts for a gluten-free cheesecake crust.

Ultimate Cheesecake

Print Recipe

The quintessential dessert that strikes the perfect balance of rich creaminess and delicate sweetness, this Ultimate Cheesecake features a velvety smooth texture and a buttery graham cracker crust.

Author: hannah-reed
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 320 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 cup sugar
4 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until well combined.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 55-60 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven and crack the door open; let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.

Notes

For a smoother batter, ensure cream cheese is at room temperature. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.