Description
This smooth, rich, and creamy Philadelphia Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious cream cheese filling made from Philadelphia cream cheese, this timeless recipe delivers a perfectly balanced flavor that’s not overly sweet. Ideal for holidays, celebrations, or a simple weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 4 packages (8 oz each) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream (optional topping)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for optional topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for optional topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat softened Philadelphia cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until blended.
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 55 minutes or until the center is almost set.
- Turn off oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature.
- (Optional) Mix sour cream with 2 tablespoons sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, then spread over cooled cheesecake.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid cracks.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for the smoothest filling.
- Top with fresh berries or fruit compote for extra flavor and presentation.
- To remove from pan, run a knife around the edge before releasing the springform.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Cheesecake can also be frozen for up to 1 month — thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: (Not specified)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: philadelphia cheesecake, classic cheesecake, baked cheesecake, cream cheese dessert