The Best Homemade Cheesecake

Discover the ultimate recipe for homemade cheesecake that’s rich, creamy, and indulgent. Made with a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety smooth cream cheese filling, this easy cheesecake recipe is perfect for beginners and pros alike. Learn step-by-step how to make the best cheesecake from scratch, complete with tips for a crack-free top and variations to customize it for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, holiday, or just because, this classic cheesecake will wow your taste buds and impress everyone. It’s the only recipe you’ll ever need for a crowd-pleasing dessert!

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 5 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated (at room temperature)
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Make the graham cracker crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
3. Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg yolks, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
4. Whip the egg whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with clean beaters until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the egg whites.
5. Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese filling into the prepared crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly wobbly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for 1 hour with the door closed.
6. Cool and chill: After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight.
7. Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and enjoy!

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Tips

• Ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Don’t skip refrigerating the cheesecake overnight; this allows the flavors to fully develop and the texture to set properly.
• For a crack-free top, avoid opening the oven door during the baking process.

Variations and Substitutions

• Crust alternatives: Swap the graham cracker crust for an Oreo crust, or use crushed shortbread cookies for a different flavor.
• Flavor enhancements: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the crust for extra warmth, or fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate cheesecake twist.
• Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and substitute the butter in the crust with a dairy-free butter alternative.

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake needs to chill overnight, so it’s perfect for making a day in advance.

Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Why does the cheesecake need to be left in the oven after turning it off?
Leaving the cheesecake in the oven with the door closed helps to gradually cool the cheesecake and prevent cracks from forming.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the cheesecake with fresh berries, a drizzle of fruit compote, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra indulgence.
• For a chocolate twist, drizzle with melted chocolate or top with chocolate shavings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade cheesecake offers the perfect balance of creamy richness and tangy sweetness, with a buttery, crisp graham cracker crust that complements the velvety filling. The added airiness from the whipped egg whites makes it light yet indulgent. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this cheesecake is sure to impress guests and become a favorite dessert for any occasion!