Baked Cheesecake Recipe – Creamy, Classic & Easy to Make at Home

Cheesecake holds a special place in the world of desserts. Its smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor make it the perfect treat for birthdays, holidays, dinner parties, or even a quiet weekend indulgence. A well-made baked cheesecake delivers far more than just taste — it creates a moment of comfort, a slice of joy served on a plate.

While many people lean toward no-bake versions for their simplicity, nothing compares to the depth of flavor and silky finish of a properly baked cheesecake. The combination of a crisp, buttery crust and luscious filling baked to perfection is something truly extraordinary. Making it at home might seem intimidating at first, but with the right steps, even beginners can master this classic dessert.

This guide breaks down everything you need — from selecting ingredients to achieving that perfect texture without cracks or dryness. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll feel confident in baking a cheesecake that rivals anything from a fancy patisserie.

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Ingredients Needed

Choosing high-quality, fresh ingredients makes all the difference when baking cheesecake. Below is a comprehensive list, along with estimated calorie counts to help you stay mindful of nutritional content.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (Approx)
Graham cracker crumbs	1 ½ cups	480
Unsalted butter (melted)	6 tablespoons	600
Cream cheese (full-fat)	4 packages (8 oz each)	3200
Granulated sugar	1 cup	770
Sour cream	1 cup	480
Vanilla extract	1 tablespoon	40
All-purpose flour	2 tablespoons	55
Eggs	4 large	280
Lemon juice	2 tablespoons	10
Salt	¼ teaspoon	0

Total Calories for the Whole Cake: ~5915
(Calories per slice depend on portion size; more on that below.)

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use a measuring cup or glass to pack it tightly and evenly.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a stand mixer or hand mixer until completely smooth and lump-free. Scrape down the sides regularly.
2. Add granulated sugar and beat for another 2 minutes.
3. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, salt, and flour. Blend until fully incorporated.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Avoid overbeating to prevent air bubbles that can lead to cracking.

Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the outer pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. This water bath ensures even baking and prevents cracks.
3. Bake for 55 to 70 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly, while the edges remain firm.
4. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside with the door slightly open for one hour. This helps it set slowly and avoids temperature shock.
5. After resting, remove from the oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight.

Serve

Once chilled, run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake before unlocking the springform. Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Cheesecake is a blank canvas that invites endless creativity. You can personalize the base recipe depending on the occasion or your cravings.

• Change the crust: Substitute graham crackers with crushed Oreos, digestive biscuits, or even gingersnaps for a spiced touch.
• Add mix-ins: Swirl in fruit compote, chocolate ganache, or caramel before baking for a layered effect.“Try our delicious Baked Cheesecake Recipe and don’t miss the creamy Boursin Cheese Recipe – Casserole style for a perfect savory twist!”
  
• Flavor the filling: Infuse your cheesecake with espresso powder, almond extract, or citrus zest.
• Go mini: Pour the filling into cupcake liners for individual servings, adjusting bake time accordingly.
• Top it off: Decorate with fresh berries, whipped cream, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of honey.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content per slice, assuming 12 slices total:

• Calories: ~490
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 7g
• Sugars: 24g
• Fiber: <1g
• Sodium: 270mg

Remember that toppings and crust substitutions may affect these values.

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Serving Suggestions

Cheesecake is rich, so pairing it with contrasting textures and flavors elevates the experience.

• Fresh fruit: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add freshness and balance.
• Fruit compote: Warm berry sauces or citrus glazes complement the creamy base.
• Whipped cream: A small dollop enhances presentation without overwhelming the flavor.
• Coffee or dessert wine: A hot espresso or glass of Moscato can cut through the richness beautifully.

For formal dinners, serve pre-sliced portions with a garnish. For casual gatherings, allow guests to slice their own and top as they please.

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FAQs

How do I prevent cracks in my baked cheesecake?
Using a water bath, not overmixing the batter, and cooling the cake slowly are all key techniques to avoid cracking.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but it may alter the texture and flavor. Full-fat cream cheese gives the best results for creaminess and structure.

How long does cheesecake last in the fridge?
Properly stored, it will last 4 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container.

Can I freeze cheesecake?
Absolutely. Cheesecake freezes well for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Is a springform pan necessary?
It’s strongly recommended for easy release and a neat presentation. If you don’t have one, line a regular pan with parchment paper and lift the cheesecake out carefully once cooled.

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Conclusion

Nothing beats the satisfaction of creating a flawless baked cheesecake from scratch. The aroma, the creamy texture, and that first perfect bite make it all worth the effort. With a bit of patience and the right technique, anyone can master this dessert and make it their own. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist, the end result is bound to impress.