Easiest And Best Cheesecake
Creamy, fruity cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, perfect for indulging guests or enjoying a special treat with your favorite fruit topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix graham crackers, melted oleo, and 1/2 cup sugar; pat into a baking pan and bake until set, not too hard.
- Allow the crust to cool completely.
- Blend eggs, remaining sugar, cream cheese, vanilla, and whipped cream until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture onto the cooled graham cracker crust.
- Top with your choice of fruit filling such as cherry, blueberries, peach, or strawberry.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. If you prefer a lower-fat option, substitute the oleo with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesecake chilled, topped with your choice of fruit filling like cherry or blueberry for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with Bonnie'S Walnut Rum Raisin Cheesecake for a dessert platter. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easiest And Best Cheesecake contains roughly 432 calories, with 7g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance. Allow it to chill overnight in the refrigerator, which helps the flavors meld. Just keep it covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
For a lighter alternative, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat than regular cream cheese. Alternatively, a vegan cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free option, although it may slightly alter the taste and texture.
Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! While graham crackers are traditional, you can use crushed cookies like Oreos or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option. A shortbread crust could also add a delightful flavor twist to your cheesecake.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).