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Sour Cream Cheesecake

A creamy and indulgent cheesecake featuring a rich cream cheese base balanced by tangy sour cream, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 8 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups ground graham crackers (or plain vanilla cookies) Subtly sweet, adds a crumbly texture.
  • 6 tablespoons 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted) Brings moisture and binds the crust.
For the filling
  • 16 ounces 16 ounces regular cream cheese (at room temperature) Creamy and rich, forms the base of the cheesecake.
  • 2 cups 2 cups sour cream (at room temperature) Adds tanginess and moisture.
  • 1 cup 1 cup sugar Sweetness that balances the tartness of sour cream.
  • 3 large 3 eggs (at room temperature) Essential for setting the cheesecake.
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavor profile.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. Optionally, line the bottom of a 9-inch (24cm) springform pan with aluminum foil.
  3. In a bowl, mix graham crackers with melted unsalted butter until it resembles wet sand.
  4. Firmly pat the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  5. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden and set aside to cool.
Filling
  1. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
  2. Gradually add sugar and mix until well combined.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently until just combined.
  4. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well-integrated.
  5. Blend in vanilla extract and pour the mixture over the prepared crust.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  2. Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to sit inside for 1 hour.
  3. Transfer the cheesecake to a wire rack and let it cool to room temperature.
  4. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.
Serving
  1. Run a knife around the edges and carefully remove the springform ring.
  2. If using foil, lift the cheesecake by the edges of the foil onto a serving plate.
  3. Serve with toppings like berry jam or fresh berries, or enjoy plain.

Notes

For the smoothest cheesecake, ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.