Description
Indulge in a creamy, rich cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust and a hint of lemon. Topped with fresh berries and whipped cream, this delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and lemon juice, mixing until incorporated.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition.
- Add sour cream and flour, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil and place it in a larger baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and water bath, then cool to room temperature on a wire rack.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Remove the sides of the springform pan and transfer to a serving platter.
- Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps.
- Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture of the cheesecake.
- A water bath helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes