How to make a perfect Cheesecake.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
For the Topping (optional):
- Fresh berries or fruit compote
- Whipped cream
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and mix until well combined.
- Form Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan (9-inch is standard). Use the back of a spoon or measuring cup to press it down evenly.
- Bake Crust: Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool while you prepare the filling for the perfect cheesecake.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar & Vanilla: Gradually add in sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined.
- Add Eggs One at a Time: Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until blended.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake Cheesecake
- Pour Filling Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Smooth Top: Smooth out the top with a spatula if needed.
- Bake Cheesecake:
- Place the springform pan in the center of the preheated oven.
- Bake for about an hour or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool Cheesecake Slowly
- Turn off oven; leave door slightly open allowing cheesecake to cool gradually inside for about an hour (this helps prevent cracking).
- Remove from Oven & Cool Completely on Wire Rack before refrigerating the perfect cheesecake.
13.. Refrigerate Overnight. Cover loosely with plastic wrap once completely cooled. Refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly. This will make a cheesecake.
Optional Toppings:
14.. Before serving add desired toppings such as fresh berries/fruit compote/whipped cream etc., if using any!
15.. Serve chilled slices directly from fridge onto plates garnished accordingly and enjoy every delicious bite!!
Enjoy your homemade cheesecake!
