A classic cheesecake has a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky cream cheese filling, and often a glossy topping of fruit, chocolate, or caramel. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any “treat yourself” moment.
🍮 Classic Homemade Cheesecake Recipe
Serves: 12
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Ingredients
For the crust:
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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⅓ cup sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
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4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
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1 cup sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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4 large eggs
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⅔ cup sour cream
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⅔ cup heavy cream
Optional toppings:
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Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
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Fruit compote
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Chocolate ganache or caramel drizzle
👩🍳 Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
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Make the crust:
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Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
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Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
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Prepare the filling:
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In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
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Add sugar and vanilla, mixing well.
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Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
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Fold in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
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Bake:
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Pour filling over cooled crust.
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Bake 50–60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
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Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake sit 1 hour to prevent cracking.
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Chill:
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Refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
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Serve:
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Remove from springform pan.
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Add optional toppings before slicing.
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🍓 Tips for Perfection
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Room temperature cream cheese helps avoid lumps.
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A water bath can help prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
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Slice with a hot, clean knife for neat slices.
I can also generate an image of a classic homemade cheesecake — creamy, with a golden graham cracker crust and fresh berry topping — if you want. Do you want me to create that?
