Graham Cracker Cheesecake

Graham Cracker Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with a crunchy graham cracker crust. This dessert is perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering, a dinner party, or simply a weekend treat. Its rich and smooth texture paired with a sweet crust makes it a favorite for many.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Graham Cracker Cheesecake is an excellent choice for anyone who loves desserts. It’s surprisingly easy to put together, and it always impresses guests. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or serve it plain for a classic feel. Plus, this cheesecake can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop for an even richer taste.

How to Make Graham Cracker Cheesecake

Creating this delicious cheesecake at home is simple. Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a creamy dessert to enjoy soon!

Ingredients:

1 1⁄2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1⁄4 cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1⁄2 cup sour cream
1⁄4 cup heavy cream

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Stir until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until slightly golden. Let cool.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract, then beat in the eggs one at a time. Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes until edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then, cool to room temperature, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Serve plain or with toppings like fresh berries or whipped cream.

How to Serve Graham Cracker Cheesecake

You can serve Graham Cracker Cheesecake plain or add your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream are great choices that enhance its taste. Slice the cheesecake into wedges and enjoy!

How to Store Graham Cracker Cheesecake

To store leftover cheesecake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it well.

Tips to Make Graham Cracker Cheesecake

Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Don’t overbeat the eggs; just mix until combined to prevent cracking.
Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven to avoid sudden temperature changes that can crack the surface.

Variation

You can add flavor variations to the cheesecake by incorporating lemon zest for a citrus touch or using different extracts like almond for a unique flavor. You can also experiment with different kinds of crusts, like Oreo or nut-based crusts.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese. However, it may change the texture slightly.

2. How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
To minimize cracking, be careful not to overbeat the mixture and cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven.

3. Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day before you plan to serve it often enhances the flavor. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

Now that you have this simple guide, you can easily create a delicious Graham Cracker Cheesecake at home. Enjoy the creamy richness and the sweet, crunchy crust that everyone will love!