cream cheese cake

A silky-smooth, dense, and decadent cake made with rich cream cheese, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a hint of vanilla. A timeless dessert that never goes out of style.

 Time & Difficulty

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour

• Cooling & Chilling Time: 6–8 hours (or overnight)

• Total Time: ~7–9 hours

• Skill Level: Intermediate

• Yields: 12 slices

 Overview

This Cream Cheese Cake is essentially a classic New York–style cheesecake — but richer, denser, and unapologetically creamy. Made with high-quality cream cheese, eggs, and a splash of vanilla over a graham cracker base, it’s the kind of dessert that wows without needing any elaborate toppings. That said, it pairs beautifully with berries, caramel, or chocolate drizzle!

 Ingredients

 For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs

• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted

• ¼ tsp cinnamon (optional)

 For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 4 (8 oz / 226g) blocks cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 1 cup (240ml) sour cream or heavy cream

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, helps reduce cracking)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (brightens flavor)

 Instructions

 Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until combined.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it tightly.

4. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

 Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese using a mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (2–3 minutes).

2. Add sugar and beat until fully incorporated.

3. Add sour cream (or heavy cream), vanilla extract, lemon juice, and flour (if using). Mix until just combined.

4. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low after each addition until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

5. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is blended.

 Step 3: Assemble & Bake

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

2. Tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.

3. Place the pan inside a large roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan until it comes about halfway up the springform pan (this is a water bath and helps prevent cracks).

4. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

5. Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour (prevents sudden cooling = no cracks).

 Step 4: Chill

1. Remove cheesecake from the water bath and let cool at room temperature for another hour.

2. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.

3. Carefully remove the springform ring before slicing.

 Optional Toppings

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

• Fruit compote (try cherry or blueberry)

• Salted caramel sauce

• Chocolate ganache drizzle

• Whipped cream and lemon zest

 Nutrition Information (Per Slice – Approx.)

Note: Values may vary based on ingredients and serving size.

 Expert Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients — cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream blend better and prevent lumps.

• Don’t overmix — too much air in the batter can cause cracking.

• Use a water bath — this ensures even baking and a smooth top.

• No springform? Use a deep 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment, leaving extra on the sides for lifting out.

• Slice cleanly by using a hot knife — wipe between each cut.

 Storage & Freezing

• Fridge: Store covered for up to 5 days

• Freezer: Freeze whole or sliced (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

 Final Thoughts

This Cream Cheese Cake is a true dessert classic — decadent, creamy, and so versatile. Whether you serve it plain, topped with fruit, or drizzled in chocolate, it’s sure to be the highlight of any celebration or cozy night in.