Traditional Cheese Cake

Prep: 30 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A rich and creamy classic cheesecake with a smooth texture and golden top, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. Its luscious flavor pairs well with fresh fruit or a fruit compote, making it a versatile dessert that appeals to both sweet and savory palates.

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Ingredients

  • 4 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
  • 1 1/2 pt. sour cream
  • 6 eggs
  • 2 Tbsp. vanilla
  • 1 1/4 c. sugar

Instructions

  1. Let cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs stand at room temperature.
  2. Blend all ingredients together for at least 15 minutes until mixture is smooth.
  3. Pour into a greased 9-inch spring-form pan.
  4. Place the pan in a larger square pan half-filled with hot water.
  5. Bake in a 375°F oven for at least 1 hour until the top is golden.
  6. Remove from oven and let cool for 1 to 2 hours.
  7. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother cheesecake, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. If you want a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. To avoid cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath and avoid overmixing to keep air from incorporating into the batter. This cheesecake pairs beautifully with Lemon-Lime Congealed Salad for a refreshing contrast.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheesecake chilled, topped with fresh berries or a fruit compote to enhance its flavor. A dollop of whipped cream can also add a nice touch. For a delightful pairing, consider serving it alongside a cup of coffee or tea. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, keeping them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving, as this will help maintain the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Traditional Cheese Cake contains roughly 268 calories, with 6g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein.

268 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.5g 11% DV
Total Fat 7.5g 10% DV
Carbs 31.9g 12% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 4.3g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 230.2mg 10% DV
Potassium 322.1mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 35.8mg 12% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 132.3mcg 15% DV
Vitamin C 21.5mg 24% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 134.9mg 10% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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 low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may alter the texture slightly, making it less creamy. For the best results, combine it with full-fat sour cream to maintain a rich taste.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

To prevent cracks, make sure to bake the cheesecake in a water bath and avoid overmixing the batter. Additionally, turning off the oven and letting the cheesecake cool inside can help reduce sudden temperature changes that lead to cracks.

Can I add flavors like chocolate or fruit to the cheesecake?

Absolutely! You can swirl in melted chocolate or fruit puree before baking for additional flavor. Just be mindful of the added moisture, which may require slight adjustments to baking time.

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).

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