Fluffy Baked Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a slice of fluffy, creamy cheesecake to indulge your sweet tooth. This baked cheesecake recipe is perfect for those who love a light and airy texture, with a velvety smooth filling. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply as a treat for yourself, this cheesecake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow these steps to create your own delectable masterpiece!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Filling:

• 32 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For the Topping:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter and sugar.

Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon or your fingers to create an even layer. Make sure the crust reaches the sides of the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.

Next, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour while continuously mixing until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula to create an even surface.

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Avoid overbaking, as this can result in a dry texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract for the topping. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the baked cheesecake.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set completely.

Once chilled, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Cut into slices and serve. You can also garnish with fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of elegance.

Variations

While this fluffy baked cheesecake recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different flavors and additions to customize it to your liking. Here are a few variations you can try:

Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake:

Add 1/2 cup of melted chocolate to the cheesecake filling and swirl it gently with a knife before baking. You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate depending on your preference.

Fruit Topped Cheesecake:

After chilling the cheesecake, top it with your favorite fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. You can also use canned fruit pie fillings for a burst of flavor.

Oreo Cookie Crust:

Swap out the graham cracker crumbs for crushed Oreo cookies to create a chocolatey crust. Combine the crushed cookies with melted butter and sugar, then follow the same steps for the crust.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your fluffy baked cheesecake turns out perfectly:

• Make sure all your ingredients, especially the cream cheese, are at room temperature before mixing. This will result in a smoother and creamier filling.
• Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to cracks on the surface of the cheesecake.
• Place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven while baking the cheesecake. The steam created will help prevent the top from cracking.
• For a neater presentation, run a knife around the edges of the cheesecake before removing the sides of the springform pan.
• Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before adding the topping to prevent it from melting.

Conclusion

This fluffy baked cheesecake recipe is a delightful dessert that will impress your friends and family. With its light and airy texture, velvety smooth filling, and buttery crust, it’s a true indulgence for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a variety of toppings, this cheesecake is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, grab your mixing bowl and get ready to create a masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

FAQs

Can I freeze the baked cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

How long can I store the cheesecake in the refrigerator?

The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can experiment with different crusts such as cookie crusts or nut crusts. Just make sure to adjust the measurements accordingly and follow the same steps for preparing the crust.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cream cheese is the traditional choice for cheesecake, you can also use other soft cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone. Keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the texture and flavor of the final product.