Party Size Cheese Cake
A rich, creamy cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for large gatherings and celebrations, offering a sweet and tangy flavor profile that pleases crowds.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted margarine, and 1/3 cup sugar, then press into a 13 x 18-inch cake pan or two 9 x 13-inch pans.
- Cream together cream cheese and 2 cups of sugar until smooth.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add lemon juice and mix well.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes or until the center is firm.
- Mix sour cream, 4 tablespoons sugar, and vanilla until blended.
- Spread the sour cream mixture over the hot cheesecake.
- Leave in the oven to cool with the door open and the oven turned off.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother cheesecake, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you don't have lemon juice, a splash of vanilla extract can work as a substitute. Be careful not to overmix after adding the eggs, as this can lead to cracks during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesecake chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flair. It pairs beautifully with Strawberry Or Peach Icebox Pie for a delightful dessert spread. Consider offering a side of whipped cream or a fruit compote to enhance flavors. This dessert is perfect for parties, as it can be cut into squares for easy serving.
Storage & Reheating
Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Size Cheese Cake contains roughly 366 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can use a cookie crust made from Oreos or any other favorite cookies. Just crush them into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter, similar to the graham cracker crust. The variation will add a unique flavor to your cheesecake.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake is done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools. Avoid opening the oven door too soon, as sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. It actually tastes better after chilling in the refrigerator for a while, allowing the flavors to meld. Just make sure to cover it well to maintain its freshness.
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).