Easy Cheesecake
A creamy and sweet cheesecake that's simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 14 sheets graham cracker sheets, crushed Approximately 221 grams
- ¼ cup granulated sugar Approximately 50 grams
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted 1 stick, approximately 113 grams
For the cheesecake filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 3 bricks, approximately 680 grams
- 1 cup granulated sugar Approximately 200 grams
- 1 cup heavy cream, room temperature Approximately 227 grams
- ½ cup sour cream, room temperature Alternatively, use plain full-fat Greek yogurt, approximately 114 grams
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Approximately 4 grams
- 3 large eggs, room temperature Approximately 150 grams
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
For the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
For the Cheesecake
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with a mixer until smooth.
- Gradually add 1 cup sugar and mix until combined.
- Add the heavy cream, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Add the kosher salt and mix until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly wobbly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit for 1 hour with the door slightly open.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Notes
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Don't overmix the eggs; mix just until combined to keep the cheesecake from cracking. Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven to prevent cracks. Serve with toppings like fruit or chocolate for added flavor. You can easily switch up the flavors by adding lemon zest or chocolate chips.