The A B C Cheesecake
A creamy, rich cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust and smooth sour cream topping, perfect for special occasions or a decadent dessert for any gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to moderate (350°F).
- Combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter in a medium bowl until well blended.
- Press the mixture against the bottom and side of a lightly buttered 9-inch spring-form pan.
- Beat the cream cheese in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Gradually beat in the sugar and egg yolks.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla.
- Beat egg whites in a small bowl until stiff.
- Fold the beaten egg whites into the cream cheese mixture.
- Turn the mixture into the prepared crust-lined pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F for 40 minutes or until set.
- Remove from oven and increase oven temperature to very hot (475°F).
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you're short on graham crackers, crushed cookies or digestive biscuits make a great substitute. You can also reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet cheesecake. If desired, add a tablespoon of lemon juice for a hint of brightness. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesecake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by topping with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve alongside slices of the Old-Fashioned Cheesecake during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to a week. If you want to freeze it, wrap slices individually and place them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The A B C Cheesecake contains roughly 1142 calories, with 10g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 491mg per serving (21% 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
Why did my cheesecake crack while baking?
Cracks in cheesecake can occur if it bakes too quickly or if the temperature is too high. To prevent this, ensure your oven is properly calibrated and consider using a water bath. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as incorporating too much air can lead to cracks as it cools.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate it properly after cooling. In fact, many people find that the flavors improve after a day in the fridge, making it a perfect dessert to prepare ahead of time for gatherings.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, you can substitute with plain Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, a mix of cream cheese and a little milk can also work, but the taste will be slightly different. Adjust the consistency to match that of sour cream for best results.
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).