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Classic Cheesecake (Rich, Creamy & Easy Homemade)

Classic Cheesecake | Rich & Creamy Homemade Dessert

This Classic Cheesecake features a crisp buttery graham cracker crust and an ultra-creamy cream cheese filling baked to perfection. Rich, smooth, and surprisingly easy to make, it's the perfect dessert for celebrations, holidays, or whenever you're craving a timeless sweet treat.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Cooling/Chilling Time 6 hours
Total Time 7 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

Graham Cracker Crust

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
  • 4 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
  • cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup sour cream room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Optional Toppings
  • Fresh strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Raspberry sauce
  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate ganache
  • Caramel sauce

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch Springform Pan Essential for easy removal
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl For the filling
  • 1 Electric Mixer Hand or stand mixer
  • 1 Rubber Spatula For folding and scraping
  • 1 Roasting Pan For optional water bath
  • 1 Aluminum Foil To wrap the springform pan

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool.Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.Add the sugar, flour, vanilla, sour cream, and lemon juice, mixing until just combined.Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition.Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.Place the pan in a water bath if desired and bake for 65–70 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.Refrigerate for at least 5 hours or overnight before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • A water bath helps prevent cracks.
  • Don't overbeat the batter after adding the eggs.
  • Chill overnight for the best texture.
  • Wipe the knife clean between slices for perfect presentation.
  • Top with fresh berries just before serving.
    Use room-temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing to achieve an ultra-smooth, crack-free cheesecake.