Are you craving a decadent cheesecake but intimidated by complicated recipes? Fear not! This 1 Package Cream Cheese Cheesecake recipe is here to rescue you. It's unbelievably easy, requiring just one package of cream cheese and a few other pantry staples, yet delivers all the creamy, dreamy goodness of a classic cheesecake. Perfect for weeknight desserts or a simple yet impressive treat for guests, this recipe is your new go-to for homemade happiness.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (6 ounce) package graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Crust
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 6-inch springform pan or a small baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes serving a breeze.
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In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
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Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even crust. This ensures even baking and a satisfying crunch.
Making the Cheesecake Filling:
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In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. A hand mixer works perfectly, but you can also use a whisk if you prefer a little arm workout.
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Gradually add the sugar, beating until it's fully incorporated and the mixture is light and fluffy.
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Beat in the egg until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to cracks in the finished cheesecake.
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Stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla adds a lovely depth of flavor, enhancing the creamy sweetness of the cheesecake.
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Pour the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust. Spread it evenly to create a smooth top.
Baking and Cooling:
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Place the pan in a larger baking pan. Pour enough hot water into the larger pan to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This creates a water bath, which helps prevent cracking and ensures even baking.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. The center will firm up as it cools.
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Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely in the water bath. Once cooled, carefully remove it from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the cheesecake to fully set and develop its rich flavor.
Serving and Enjoying:
Once chilled, carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan. Garnish with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a dollop of whipped cream – whatever your heart desires! Serve and enjoy this simple yet delicious treat.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese.
- Feel free to experiment with different crusts! Try using crushed Oreo cookies, digestive biscuits, or even a shortbread crust.
- Add a swirl of your favorite jam or fruit preserves to the cream cheese filling for an extra burst of flavor.
- For a chocolate lover's twist, add 1/4 cup of melted semi-sweet chocolate to the cream cheese mixture.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 5-7g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This simple recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and delicious dishes. It's a great example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy meal option, too. Enjoy!