Classic Homemade Cheesecake: Your Perfect Holiday Dessert

Easy Homemade Cheesecake: A Creamy Holiday Delight

Kick off your holiday gathering with a rich and creamy cheesecake that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. This homemade cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety vanilla filling that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients for Classic Cheesecake

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 24 ounces (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• Pinch of salt

Instructions: Baking Your Perfect Cheesecake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 2 tbsp sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (162°C).
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and free of lumps.
5. Scrape down the sides, then add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and a pinch of salt until the batter is creamy.
7. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is almost set with a slight jiggle.
9. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
10. Remove from oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
11. Run a knife around the edge before unlocking the springform, slice, and serve cold.

Tips & Tricks for Fluffy, Crack-Free Cheesecake

• Room-temperature ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are not cold.
• Don’t overmix: Avoid incorporating too much air which can cause cracks.
• Water bath option: Wrap the pan in foil and place it in a water bath for extra moisture.
• Chill thoroughly: Gives the cheesecake its signature dense, creamy texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Servings: 12 slices

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 462 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Sugar: 16 g
• Fat: 38 g (Saturated Fat: 22 g)
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg
• Sodium: 307 mg
• Fiber: 1 g

Now that you’ve mastered this classic cheesecake, get ready to wow your guests and indulge in every creamy bite of your homemade cheesecake.