Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence; deliciously light and creamy and yet surprisingly simple to make! Learn how to make cheesecake with this easy to follow recipe, and it will be a favorite for years to come!
Cheesecake is one of those decadent desserts that may seem difficult to get just right. But it doesn’t have to be. Once you have a basic recipe down you can create dozens of simple, sweet cheesecakes. Read on to find out how to make cheesecake perfectly rich and creamy every time.
How to Make Graham Cracker Crust
This delicious recipe starts off with a rich, buttery graham cracker crust. You can buy a pre-made one at the grocery store, or make your own! This Graham Cracker Crust recipe is simple and so yummy.
How To Avoid Lumpy Cheesecake Filling
My first few times making cheesecake it seemed no matter how long I mixed, there were small lumps in the filling! To avoid those pesky lumps, make sure everything is room temperature. The softer the cream cheese, the better it will blend with the other ingredients. Also, take time to incorporate each ingredient slowly and thoroughly mix to get rid of any lumps.
How Do I Know if the Cheesecake is Done?
To make sure your cheesecake is completely done but not overdone, give the pan a slight shake while it’s in the oven.The cheesecake is done if just a small circle in the center jiggles slightly. That center part will set up more as it cools. Never use a knife to check the done-ness in a cheesecake.
Cheesecake Toppings
With this classic cheesecake recipe you can top it with anything you like! We love to drizzle our slices with cherry pie filling or raspberries and chocolate. But here are a few other ideas to get your taste buds dancing:
- Blueberries (fresh or pie filling)
- Strawberries
- Caramel sauce
- Nuts
- Blackberries
- Any kind of jam
- Fresh peaches and cream
- Candy bar pieces
- chocolate shavings
More Cheesecake Recipes
If you’ve ever seen the menu at the Cheesecake Factory, you know there are endless cheesecake options out there. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite recipes to whip up at home.
- Pumpkin Cheesecake with Praline Topping
- Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
- Cheesecake with Raspberry Sauce
- Mini Grasshopper Cheesecakes
- Mini Cherry Cheesecakes
- White Chocolate Caramel Maca-nut Cheesecake
- Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle
- Triple Berry Cheesecake Bites
Can Cheesecake Be Frozen?
Yes! Cheesecakes freeze beautifully and can be stored for up to three months. To avoid sticking, freeze the cheesecake uncovered on a baking sheet first, then cover in freezer safe wrap.
How Long Should You Let Cheesecake Cool Before Putting it in the Fridge?
Once the cheesecake is baked, let it cool to room temperature before storing in the refrigerator. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. TIP: Cheesecake tastes best at room temperature. So take it out of the fridge about an hour before adding toppings and serving.
How to Make Cheesecake
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 eggs room temperature
- Graham cracker pie crust
Instructions
- Mix softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until creamy. Beat for at least 3 minutes or until there are no lumps of cream cheese. Then beat eggs in - one at a time blending well between each one.
- Pour into crust. Bake at 350 for 40 min. Cool. Refrigerate at least 3 hours.
- You can top it with anything you want.
Erica says
YUM EMS!! This looks so delicious!
Erica says
Hey, I made this and it tasted SO GOOD! Thanks for the recipe!!
Katie says
Can you post the recipe for the chocolate sauce, if it’s homemade? It looks so thick and creamy! I have been searching for a good fudgey topping.
EBWalker says
It was actually Dove Hot Fudge sauce, which is REALLY good!
Sue says
Recipe above is confusing. It has ingredients, except for eggs, then cook. Number 2 says to beat eggs and blend. The cheesecake is already in the oven cooking before the eggs are in it. Doesn’t make sense!
Favorite Family Recipes says
Oh no! You are right – the directions got out of order. I will fix that right now! Thanks for catching it!
Ashley says
Oh man!! I think I’m ready to conquer cheesecake now!
Alyssa says
I think people get intimidated by making cheesecake, but this version is so easy, and it’s my favorite! It doesn’t get any better than the traditional cherry pie filling topping (in my opinion).
Danielle says
With all that deliciousness that I can see in your images, I have no doubts this cheesecake will become a favorite in any house! One of the best-looking cheesecakes I have seen lately – can’t wait to make it!
Renee | The Good Hearted Woman says
These are all great cheesecake tips! Thanks for clarifying how to test for doneness, too – that can be tricky.
Anjali says
I’ve always been intimidated by the idea of making cheesecake at home but your recipe made it so easy!! And it turned out great!