Total time
63 min
Servings
9
Calories
544.4
Category
Desserts
Indulge in the classic creamy decadence of homemade cheesecake with this easy, foolproof recipe. Perfect for weeknight desserts or special occasions, this velvety cheesecake features a luscious sour cream topping and bakes in under an hour. Whether you top it with fruit pie filling or enjoy it plain, every slice is pure bliss.
Ingredients
Makes 9 servings
- 3 cream cheese
- 1 1/4 sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 vanilla
- 16 sour cream
- 9 sugar
- 1 vanilla
Method
Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs and vanilla til smooth.
Put in greased 9-inch pan.
Place in 350 oven for 35 minutes Take out and let rest 15 minutes Mix sour cream, sugar and vanilla Pour on top of cheesecake.
Bake 10 more minutes.
Put pie filling on, if desired.
Cook's notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a silky, lump-free batter.
- Grease the pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Let the cheesecake rest after the first bake to avoid cracking before adding the topping.
- Cool completely before slicing for clean, neat pieces.
Easy swaps
- Instead of cream cheese, use Neufchâtel cheese (lower fat) or vegan cream cheese
- Instead of sugar, use coconut sugar or erythritol (for lower glycemic option)
- Instead of sour cream, use Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat) or dairy-free sour cream
- Instead of eggs, use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg)
Frequently asked
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overbaking or sudden temperature changes cause cracks. Bake just until the center is slightly jiggly, and cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating.
Can I use a water bath?
Yes! Place the pan in a larger pan filled with 1 inch of hot water to ensure even, gentle baking and prevent cracks.
What pie filling works best?
Cherry, strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry pie filling are classic choices. You can also use fresh fruit compote.
Can I make this gluten-free?
The recipe has no flour, so it's naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your vanilla extract and any toppings are certified gluten-free.
How do I know when it's done?
The edges should be set and lightly golden, while the center still jiggles slightly when shaken. It will firm up as it cools.
