Are you craving a decadent dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This creamy, dreamy cheesecake recipe using sweetened condensed milk is the perfect answer. Forget complicated techniques and long baking times; this recipe delivers rich, satisfying cheesecake flavor with minimal effort. It's the perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals (relatively speaking, of course!). This recipe is ideal for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike, offering a delicious shortcut to homemade cooking bliss.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream (optional, for topping)
- Fresh berries or chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preparing the Crust
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Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your cheesecake masterpiece.
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Crust Creation: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until evenly moistened. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
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Press & Bake: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating an even crust. For a perfectly even crust, use the bottom of a measuring cup to firmly press the crumbs. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely. This step sets the base for your cheesecake.
The Cheesecake Filling:
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Cream Cheese Prep: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Using an electric mixer makes this step much easier, but a hand mixer or even vigorous whisking works too!
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Sweetened Condensed Milk Magic: Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese, beating until well combined and completely smooth. This is where the magic happens—the sweetened condensed milk adds incredible richness and sweetness.
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Egg & Vanilla Infusion: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Don't overmix; just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to cracks in your finished cheesecake.
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Pour & Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Place the springform 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, preventing cracking).
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 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.
Cooling & Serving:
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Cool Down: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This slow cooling helps prevent cracks.
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Chill Out: Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set completely.
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Optional Topping: Before serving, you can top the cheesecake with a dollop of sour cream and garnish with fresh berries or chocolate shavings. Get creative!
Tips for Cheesecake Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth, creamy batter.
- Water Bath is Key: The water bath creates a humid environment that prevents cracking and ensures even baking.
- Don't Overbake: Slightly jiggly in the center is okay; it will firm up as it cools.
Variations:
- Chocolate Cheesecake: Add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the batter.
- Lemon Cheesecake: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the batter.
- Coffee Cheesecake: Brew strong coffee and let it cool completely, then use it instead of the milk in the recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Fat: 25-30g
- Sugar: 40-50g
- Protein: 5-7g
This delicious cheesecake recipe, utilizing the convenience of sweetened condensed milk, is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dessert, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Remember to share your creations and tag us! Happy baking!