Cream Cheese Cake Recipe

Dreamy Cream Cheese Cake Recipe: A Velvety Slice of Bliss

Whipping up a delightful cream cheese cake can turn an ordinary afternoon into a sweet celebration of pure indulgence.

Smooth and velvety textures promise a delectable dessert that melts in your mouth.

Rich cream cheese becomes the star ingredient, delivering incredible depth and tangy sophistication.

You will adore how simple ingredients combine to create something magical.

Each slice promises a creamy experience that feels both luxurious and comforting.

Delicate crumbs and luscious layers await you in this irresistible treat.

Let’s embark on a culinary journey that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

What Makes Cream Cheese Cake Rich And Creamy

  • Quick and Easy Preparation: Whip up this cream cheese cake with minimal effort, perfect for bakers of all skill levels who want a delightful dessert without complicated techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: This classic cheesecake offers a creamy, smooth texture that appeals to everyone from kids to adults, making it ideal for family gatherings and potluck parties.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the cake in advance and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing you to plan ahead and reduce last-minute stress when entertaining guests.
  • Versatile Serving Option: Customize with various toppings like fresh berries, chocolate sauce, or caramel to match different tastes and create a personalized dessert experience.

Cream Cheese Cake Ingredient List

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Classic base for cheesecake with a sweet, crumbly texture that provides a solid foundation.
  • Unsalted Butter: Binds the crumbs together and adds rich flavor to the crust.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The star ingredient that creates the smooth, creamy texture of the cheesecake. Best when full-fat and softened at room temperature.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps create a silky smooth consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, classic flavor that complements the cream cheese.
Moisture and Binding Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake filling together. Room temperature eggs incorporate more smoothly.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and extra moisture to keep the cheesecake creamy and prevent cracking.

Cream Cheese Cake – How to Make It

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 325°F and let it start heating while you prepare the delightful cheesecake.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Base

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and blend them with melted butter.

Press this delectable mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating a solid and tasty foundation for your cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip the Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, transform cream cheese into a silky smooth mixture by beating it until it becomes wonderfully creamy and free of lumps.

Step 4: Sweeten and Flavor

Introduce sugar and vanilla to the cream cheese, blending them together until they create a harmonious and delightful mixture that promises incredible flavor.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Gently add eggs to the cream cheese mixture, one at a time.

Mix thoroughly after each addition, ensuring a perfectly integrated batter.

Step 6: Blend in Creamy Extras

Fold in sour cream and flour, stirring until the mixture becomes completely smooth and luxurious.

Step 7: Pour and Smooth

Carefully pour the batter over the graham cracker crust, using a spatula to create an even, gorgeous surface.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the cheesecake into the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes.

The center should look almost set but still have a slight jiggle.

Step 9: Cool and Chill

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature.

Then transfer to the refrigerator and let it chill for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to become wonderfully firm.

Cream Cheese Cake With Rich Texture and Smooth Bake Ideas

  • Refrigerate the springform pan for 10 minutes before pressing graham cracker mixture to help it set firmly and prevent crumbling.
  • Bring cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature for smoother, lump-free mixing and better texture.
  • Avoid overmixing batter and bake in a water bath to create humidity, which prevents surface cracks and ensures even cooking.
  • Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently tap the pan and release air bubbles, creating a perfectly smooth cheesecake surface.
  • Use unwaxed dental floss to cut clean, precise slices without dragging or distorting the cheesecake's delicate texture.

Store Cream Cheese Cake And Reheat Gently

  • Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual slices or whole cheesecake in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake stays fresh for 1-2 months.
  • Move frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator overnight for gradual, even defrosting. Avoid room temperature thawing to maintain texture.
  • Enjoy cheesecake chilled. If you prefer a slightly warmed slice, microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power, checking to prevent overheating.

Sweet Companions for Cream Cheese Cake

  • Elevate Creamy Cheesecake with Perfect Pairings
  • Sip Sweet Port Wine: Complement the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake with a luscious port wine. Its deep, caramel-like sweetness balances the tangy cream cheese and enhances the dessert's decadent profile.
  • Match with Fresh Berries: Top each slice with a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries. Their bright, tart flavor cuts through the cheesecake's richness and adds a vibrant color pop to the plate.
  • Brew Bold Espresso: Serve a shot of robust espresso alongside the cheesecake. The strong coffee's intensity provides a delightful contrast to the dessert's creamy sweetness, creating a sophisticated flavor experience.
  • Drizzle Caramel Sauce: Enhance the dessert with a warm caramel sauce. Its golden, buttery notes will melt into the cheesecake, adding depth and an extra layer of indulgent flavor that makes each bite more luxurious.

Cream Cheese Cake with Rich and Tangy Layers

  • Gluten-Free Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour.
  • Vegan Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Use coconut cream instead of sour cream. Replace eggs with silken tofu or commercial egg replacer.
  • Keto-Friendly Cheesecake: Use almond flour or crushed pecans for the crust. Swap sugar with erythritol or stevia. Reduce carbohydrate content by using full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream.
  • Low-Fat Version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Replace whole eggs with egg whites. Omit butter in the crust or use minimal amount.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of crust instead of graham crackers?

Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed Oreo cookies for a different flavor profile.

  • How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

To prevent cracking, avoid overmixing the batter, bake in a water bath, and let the cheesecake cool gradually by turning off the oven and leaving the door slightly open after baking.

  • Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

A springform pan is ideal because it allows you to remove the cheesecake easily without damaging its delicate structure. If you don’t have one, use a cake pan with removable bottom or line a regular pan with parchment paper.

  • Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing to maintain its texture and flavor.

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Cream Cheese Cake Recipe

Cream Cheese Cake Recipe


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4.9 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent cream cheese cake weaves magic through layers of silky smoothness and rich flavor. Sweet whispers of comfort invite warm moments of pure dessert bliss for passionate bakers seeking delightful culinary experiences.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 (8 ounces / 226 grams) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar

Crust Ingredients:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup (118 milliliters / 1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted

Finishing Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (118 milliliters / 1/2 cup) sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 325°F, ensuring an optimal baking temperature for the delicate cheesecake.
  2. Create a sturdy foundation by blending graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, then firmly pressing the mixture into the base of a springform pan.
  3. Transform cream cheese into a silky texture through vigorous beating, breaking down any potential lumps for a smooth consistency.
  4. Gradually incorporate sugar and vanilla extract, gently folding until the mixture achieves a uniform, creamy appearance.
  5. Introduce eggs individually, carefully mixing after each addition to maintain the batter’s delicate structure and prevent overmixing.
  6. Gently fold in sour cream and flour, stirring until the mixture reaches a completely uniform and velvety consistency.
  7. Transfer the luscious batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to distribute evenly and create a perfectly level surface.
  8. Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven, allowing it to bake for 55-65 minutes until the center shows just a subtle hint of movement.
  9. Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, preventing sudden temperature changes that could cause cracking.
  10. Carefully transfer to the refrigerator and let it rest for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly before serving.

Notes

  • Perfectly smooth cream cheese requires room temperature ingredients, allowing them to blend seamlessly without lumps.
  • Prevent cracking by avoiding overmixing and placing a shallow pan of water in the oven during baking to create moisture.
  • Gluten-free option works great by substituting graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for the base.
  • Reduce sugar content by using alternative sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit for a lower-carb friendly version that maintains delicious texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
James Walker

James Walker

Lead Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southern Cuisine & Farm-to-Table Cooking, Recipe Development & Testing, Culinary Education & Instruction​

Education

School: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and farm-to-table practices. ​


James didn’t learn cooking from a TV show, he learned it from busy kitchens, family gatherings, and long afternoons spent testing recipes the hard way.
After training at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he brought his love for real, down-to-earth food to every dish he makes.
At Dining At Home, James loves building recipes that feel familiar but still have something special, like adding a twist to a classic or making a slow Sunday dinner feel brand new.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll probably find him swapping garden tips at the farmers’ market or teaching his daughter how to flip pancakes without a mess (almost).

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