Classic Cream Cheese Cake Recipe
There’s something timeless about a Cream Cheese Cake — smooth, rich, and delicately sweet. This cake is a true crowd-pleaser that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the simplicity of a traditional cake. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy night at home, this dessert will melt in your mouth with every bite.
What makes this recipe truly special is its perfect balance: the tangy flavor of cream cheese, the buttery crust, and a light sweetness that keeps you coming back for more. It’s not overly heavy, yet it feels indulgent — a perfect harmony of flavor and texture that turns a simple dessert into something unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – the base of your crust, adding a light crunch and buttery flavor.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – balances the slight tang of the cream cheese.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – holds the crust together and gives it a golden finish.
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened – the heart of the cake; use full-fat for the creamiest texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the creamy filling just enough.
- 3 large eggs – provide structure and richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor and aroma.
- 1 cup sour cream – adds a smooth, slightly tangy finish for that bakery-style cheesecake taste.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – deepens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy — about 2 minutes. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until well combined and creamy.
- Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed and scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition to ensure a perfectly smooth texture.
- Flavor and finish the batter: Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and salt. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined, but do not overmix — this keeps your cake light and creamy instead of dense.
- Pour and bake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool gradually: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cake cool inside for 1 hour. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- Chill completely: Once cooled, refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step allows the flavors to develop and the texture to firm up beautifully.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice with a clean, warm knife for neat pieces. Serve plain or with your favorite toppings — fresh berries, fruit compote, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cream Cheese Cake
- Room temperature ingredients: Always let your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream come to room temperature. This ensures a silky-smooth batter with no lumps.
- Don’t overbeat: Mixing too much can incorporate air, which causes cracks while baking.
- Use a water bath (optional): For an ultra-smooth, creamy texture, place the springform pan inside a larger pan filled halfway with hot water. It creates a gentle, even bake.
- Chill thoroughly: Cheesecake tastes best when completely cold — overnight chilling is ideal for maximum flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Cream Cheese Cake is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:
- Top with fresh strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
- Drizzle with chocolate ganache or salted caramel for a decadent dessert.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed nuts for texture.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cream Cheese Cake stands out for its balance of rich flavor and velvety smooth texture. It’s not overly sweet, making it perfect for any occasion — from elegant dinner parties to simple family gatherings. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dessert that only gets better the next day. Once you master this recipe, it’ll become your go-to cheesecake every time you need to impress.
Final Thoughts
Simple, classic, and irresistibly creamy — this Cream Cheese Cake is everything a perfect cheesecake should be. With its buttery crust, rich filling, and endless topping options, it proves that the best desserts don’t have to be complicated. Each slice delivers that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience everyone loves. Whether you serve it plain or dressed up, this cake will always steal the spotlight on any dessert table.
Because sometimes, the simplest recipes make the sweetest memories.
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