Name: How to Make Cheesecake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 230 min
Yield: 8 people
Ingredients: 16 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla; 2 eggs (room temperature); Graham cracker pie crust

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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.

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.