Best Cheesecake Recipe
A rich and creamy classic cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Creamy Cheesecake Filling:
- 5 blocks full-fat cream cheese 40 ounces total, room temperature
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 5 large eggs room temperature
- 3 large egg yolks room temperature
- 1/2 cup heavy cream room temperature (Use an extra 1/4 cup for a creamier texture)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream optional, for a creamier texture
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, then bake for 8 minutes.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, vanilla, eggs, and heavy cream, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and smooth the top. Place in a water bath and bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit for 45 minutes, then cool on a wire rack and chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours.
Notes
For a crack-free cheesecake, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing the batter. The water bath helps maintain even baking.