Classic Cream Cheese Cake

Cream Cheese Cake is a timeless dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious, tangy-sweet cream cheese filling. This version stays true to its roots with a rich and velvety texture, a golden base, and just the right balance of sweetness and acidity. Made with simple yet indulgent ingredients like sour cream, heavy cream, and eggs, this cake is perfect for any occasion—holidays, birthdays, or simply when you’re in the mood for a decadent treat.

What makes this cheesecake particularly special is the combination of cream cheese and sour cream, which gives the cake its signature silky texture and mild tang. The graham cracker crust adds a lovely crunch that complements the smoothness of the filling. Whether served plain, topped with fresh berries, or drizzled with a fruit compote or chocolate sauce, this cheesecake is a dessert that always delivers.

And the best part? While it may look impressive, it’s straightforward to prepare. With a little patience and a few tips for success, you can create a bakery-worthy cream cheese cake right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Texture – The perfect blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream creates a melt-in-your-mouth filling.
2. Classic Flavor – A traditional cheesecake that doesn’t need toppings to shine—though it welcomes them beautifully.
3. Make-Ahead Friendly – Ideal for preparing the day before, as it chills and sets even better overnight.
4. Customizable Crust – Use graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or even chocolate cookies.
5. Versatile Presentation – Serve it as is, or dress it up with sauces, fruits, or whipped cream.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

• Graham crackers (or graham cracker crumbs)
• Granulated sugar
• Kosher salt
• Butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

• Eggs
• Egg yolks
• Vanilla extract
• Heavy cream
• Cream cheese, room temperature
• Granulated sugar
• Sour cream, room temperature

Variations

Chocolate Crust

Use chocolate graham crackers or crushed Oreos instead of traditional graham crackers for a richer base.

Fruit Swirl

Add a swirl of raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry sauce into the filling before baking for a fruity twist.

Citrus Zest

Mix in lemon or orange zest to brighten the flavor and give it a fresh, zesty kick.

Gluten-Free Version

Substitute gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.

Mini Cheesecakes

Make individual servings using a muffin tin for easy party treats.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs. Combine with sugar, salt, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan and slightly up the sides. Bake briefly (if desired) or chill while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add Sour Cream and Cream

Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure even blending.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, mixing just until combined. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Pour and Smooth

Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven using a water bath for even baking and to prevent cracking. Bake until the center is just slightly jiggly.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Allow the cake to cool at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures a smoother batter and prevents lumps.
• Avoid Overmixing – Overmixing can incorporate too much air and cause cracking.
• Use a Water Bath – Helps the cheesecake cook evenly and prevents it from drying out or cracking.
• Cool Gradually – Let the cake sit in the oven with the door slightly ajar after baking to prevent sudden temperature change.
• Chill Overnight – The texture and flavor are best after chilling for several hours or overnight.

How to Serve

Serve chilled with your favorite toppings—fresh berries, chocolate sauce, caramel drizzle, or a dollop of whipped cream. For a clean cut, dip a knife in hot water and wipe between slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices or the whole cake (without toppings) in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best served cold or at room temperature. No reheating necessary.

FAQs

1. Why did my cheesecake crack?

Cracking can occur from overbaking or sudden temperature changes. Use a water bath and cool the cake gradually.

2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture, but low-fat can be used with slightly different results.

3. How do I prevent lumps in my filling?

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature and beat the cream cheese until smooth before adding other ingredients.

4. What’s the purpose of the water bath?

It ensures even baking and prevents the surface from cracking.

5. Can I skip the sour cream?

Sour cream adds a smooth texture and slight tang. You can substitute with full-fat Greek yogurt in a pinch.

6. Can I bake without a crust?

Yes, for a crustless cheesecake, grease the pan well and line the bottom with parchment paper.

7. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The center should still jiggle slightly, but the edges should look set. It will firm up as it cools.

8. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. This cheesecake is perfect for making a day or two in advance.

9. How long should it cool before refrigeration?

Cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour, then chill in the fridge for 4 hours or overnight.

10. What toppings go best with this cheesecake?

Fresh berries, fruit sauces, lemon curd, chocolate ganache, or caramel sauce all pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Classic Cream Cheese Cake is a dessert that never goes out of style. With its silky-smooth filling, sweet graham cracker crust, and endless customization options, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just trying your hand at homemade cheesecake, this recipe delivers reliable, delicious results every time. Prepare it ahead, personalize it with your favorite toppings, and watch it become the star of your dessert table.

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