Description
A classic Philadelphia Cheesecake is the epitome of creamy, smooth, and decadent indulgence. Made with cream cheese, sugar, and a buttery graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is rich, velvety, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving a sweet treat, this cheesecake is always a hit!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are well-coated and the mixture is evenly combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a compact, even crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until slightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the sour cream and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The top should be lightly golden. If you see cracks forming, that’s okay.
- Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Afterward, remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Serve:
- Before serving, you can top the cheesecake with fresh berries, a fruit compote, or whipped cream if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Crust Variations: You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with digestive biscuits or crushed shortbread cookies for a different flavor.
- Make-Ahead: This cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg