This Classic Cheesecake with Sour Cream makes for the perfect crowd pleaser. Make a plain cheesecake then top with whatever flavors your heart desires!
Classic Cheesecake
A fresh cheesecake is usually a fan favorite. I have yet to meet anyone who would refuse a slice. Making a cheesecake from scratch for the first time can be intimidating but fear not, you can only improve!
A typical cheesecake uses a springform pan in a water bath for cooking. In this recipe, we will simply use a springform pan and cook it directly in the oven. Sure, it may cook a bit differently but you will still end up with a delicious cheesecake…but with no headaches!
Another oddity may be that there is sour cream in this recipe. The reason for the inclusion is two-fold: acidity and richness. Not only does the acid elevate the flavor profile with the addition of tang but it also aids in the structure of the cheesecake. It tenderizes it. I know what you’re thinking, ‘only meat needs to be tenderized?’. Well, as in tenderization of meat, the protein in the cheesecake can also be broken down, hence, tenderizing. Now, sour cream has a heavy amount of fat. This fat gives the cheesecake it’s classic creamy texture. So, if you are considering omitting sour cream acknowledge the change that will result.
Some of the Basic Ingredients
- Graham cracker– you will end up needing about a sleeve of graham crackers or you can purchase them pre-crushed!
- Cream cheese- the brand of the cream cheese doesn’t matter too much, as long as you get the full-fat variety. Also, allowing them to reach room temperature will make a world of difference.
- Sugar- It’s a sweet treat, of course there’s sugar!
Only three more ingredients and you’re well on your way to a delicious cheesecake!
Cheesecake Toppings
There are endless combinations of flavors and toppings to add to a classic cheesecake. Some fruit favorites are fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or peaches. If you are looking for something a bit different are bits of brownie, caramelized banana slices, or any of your favorite candies chopped up!
Of course you can stop there but sometimes you just need a little something else too. A fresh slice of cheesecake pairs nicely with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, chocolate or caramel drizzle, and topped off with a burst of whipped cream!
Classic Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping
If you are wanting more of the homemade taste try:
- Removing the stems
- Slicing as small as possible- no need to be even
- Place in a container with sides
- Use something to chop them up. I use a circle cookie cutter
- Add sugar and mix well
- Add to your cheesecake!
Looking for more cheesecake flavors? Try my Cinnamon Apple Cheesecake or Cheesecake with Brownie Crust!
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Classic Cheesecake with Sour Cream
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust
- 18 Whole Graham cracker sheets full length
- 1/4 Cup Sugar
- 1 Stick Butter unsalted
Cheesecake
- 16 ounces Cream cheese room temperature
- 2 Tablespoons Butter melted
- 1/2 Cup Sour Cream
- 1/4 Cup Sugar
- 2 Eggs
- 2 Tablespoons Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9 inch springform pan with nonstick spray.
- Add your graham crackers to a ziplock bag and crush until they are even-sized crumbs. In a bowl combine these graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter until evenly mixed.
- Add mixture to springform pan and press into bottom of pan and slightly up the edge. Bake in oven for 45-50 minutes.
- While crust is in the oven begin making the cheesecake.
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