Are you craving a decadent dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy cheesecake with a tangy sour cream topping is the perfect balance of rich and refreshing. It’s a delicious dish perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight treat to a sophisticated dinner party dessert. This recipe focuses on homemade cooking, offering a healthier and more flavorful alternative to store-bought cheesecakes. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this stunningly simple, yet incredibly satisfying, easy recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Sour Cream Topping:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure an even layer.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Preparing the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until well combined.
- Add the flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until just combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be sure not to overmix.
- Gently stir in the sour cream until just combined.
Assembling and Baking the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
- Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Pour enough hot water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan (this creates a water bath, preventing cracking).
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once completely cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set completely.
Making the Sour Cream Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cheesecake has chilled, spread the sour cream topping evenly over the top.
Serving and Storage:
Serve chilled and enjoy! This delicious cheesecake is best served within 3-4 days of making it, although it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Cheesecake:
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother, lump-free batter.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the batter can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake.
- Water bath: The water bath helps to create a moist baking environment, preventing cracking and ensuring even baking.
- Cool gradually: Cooling the cheesecake gradually prevents rapid temperature changes, minimizing the risk of cracks.
Variations:
- Chocolate Cheesecake: Add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Fruit Topping: Top with fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, for a beautiful and refreshing twist.
- Different Crust: Experiment with different crusts, such as Oreo crust or a pecan shortbread crust.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This easy recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal option. Enjoy this quick dinner idea as a delightful dessert that's sure to impress! This recipe for homemade cooking ensures a flavorful and high-quality meal. It’s one of the best recipes for a truly satisfying and creamy cheesecake experience.