Easiest Cheesecake

Ingredients

• 1.5 cup graham cracker crumbs (for the crust)
• 0.33 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 0.25 cup granulated sugar (for the crust)
• 32 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1.25 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
• 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 eggs (large, room temperature)

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until it resembles wet sand.

3. 3

   Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

4. 4

   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 1/4 cups sugar until smooth and creamy.

5. 5

   Add the sour cream and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and beat until well combined.

6. 6

   Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated after each addition. Do not overmix.

7. 7

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

8. 8

   Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.

9. 9

   Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly cracked for 1 hour to prevent cracking.

10. 10

    Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.

Notes

Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before starting to prevent lumps in the batter. Do not overbeat the eggs to avoid air bubbles and cracking.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• cheesecake
• baking
• vegetarian
• holiday
• easy