Description
A rich and creamy classic cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion. This recipe delivers a smooth, velvety texture and balanced sweetness, with optional lemon zest for added brightness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Stir in the sour cream and lemon zest (if using) and mix until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Tap the pan on the counter to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven, bring to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother batter.
- Overmixing can cause cracks in the cheesecake.
- Optional lemon zest adds a fresh, subtle flavor.
- Chilling overnight enhances flavor and texture.
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: cheesecake, baked cheesecake, classic cheesecake, creamy dessert, graham cracker crust