Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a springform pan.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar, then press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then add 1 cup sugar and mix until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
- Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.
- Turn off oven and let cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.
- Let cheesecake cool gradually in the oven.
- Add fruit toppings like strawberries or blueberries.
- Use melted chocolate for a chocolate variation.
- Freeze slices for longer storage if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 140mg