Cheesecake is a beloved dessert around the world, known for its creamy texture, rich flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat, mastering the art of cheesecake making is a rewarding skill. In this article, we’ll walk you through a classic baked cheesecake recipe, perfect for beginners and dessert lovers alike

🧁 What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather your ingredients and equipment. For a traditional cheesecake, you’ll need two main components: the crust and the filling.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for a firmer texture)🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
3 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened (about 675g)
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup (240g) sour cream
1. Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even base. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. Add sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until well incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully combined before adding the next. Finally, fold in the sour cream and flour, mixing gently to avoid overbeating.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the creamy filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake the cheesecake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is mostly set with a slight jiggle in the middle. Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface.
4. Chill and Set
Once cooled, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This step allows the flavors to develop and the texture to firm up beautifully.

🍓 Serving and Toppings
Serve your cheesecake as is, or elevate it with toppings like fresh berries, fruit compote, chocolate drizzle, caramel sauce, or whipped cream. The possibilities are endless, making this dessert as customizable as it is delicious.

Read also: How to make Lasagne
👩🍳 Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for the smoothest filling.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to prevent excess air, which can cause cracks.
- Water Bath (Optional): For an ultra-smooth texture and even baking, you can bake the cheesecake in a water bath.