This is the foolproof cheesecake recipe developed by Savor And Pin to convert even the staunchest cheesecake skeptics. It features a silky texture and perfectly balanced, mild sweetness designed for universal appeal.
Author:Ben Androshov
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:65 minutes
Total Time:7 hours 25 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield:10 servings
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking (Water Bath)
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cream Cheese (full fat, softened): 32 ounces
Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
Large Eggs: 4
Sour Cream: 1 cup
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed): 1 tablespoon
Graham Cracker Crust (pre-made or homemade): 1 (9-inch)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl often.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until each egg is incorporated. Do not overmix once the eggs are added.
Gently mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until just combined.
Pour the batter over the prepared graham cracker crust in a 9-inch springform pan.
Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath (bain-marie).
Bake for 55 to 65 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle.
Turn off the oven, prop the door open slightly (about 2 inches), and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour. This prevents cracking.
Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and oven. Let it cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature.
Once cool, cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.
Notes
Using room temperature ingredients is key to achieving a silky, lump-free texture.
The water bath is non-negotiable; it provides gentle, even heat, which prevents the top from cracking and ensures a creamy set.
Do not open the oven door during the initial baking time.
For the best flavor and texture, chill the cheesecake overnight.