Description
A rich and creamy vanilla bean cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Add the vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste, and lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
- To serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, try adding a swirl of your favorite fruit puree on top before baking.
- You can also substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 26g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 6g