This BEST Easy Cheesecake Recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and smooth classic cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for beginners and guaranteed to impress every time.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour
Total Time:5 hours 20 minutes (includes cooling and chilling)
Yield:12 slices 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup sugar and beat until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until smooth.
Pour the batter over the crust in the pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
For a crack-free top, avoid overmixing and use a water bath if desired.
Let ingredients come to room temperature for a smoother batter.
Top with fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce if desired.
Cheesecake can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.