Easy Baked Cheesecake Recipe: Perfect Classic Recipe

My family has been making this easy baked cheesecake recipe for years. It is the best cheesecake recipe that you can make your own with different toppings.

More delicious recipe to try: Viral Cinnamon Roll Hack, Berry Custard Pie, and Beignets with Chocolate Sauce.

Cheesecake is one of my favorites. I always love going to The Cheesecake Factory because of all the delicious flavors, but nothing beats a homemade cheesecake. My Nana made this cheesecake for my mom as a small girl and then my mom made it for me and my siblings. My family has been making it for a long time. Let’s just say the recipe has been in the family and it is actually really easy to make! It is one of those recipes that gets passed down because it is easy and delicious and yields the best results. Let’s get baking this easy homemade cheesecake recipe.

Indulging in a heavenly slice of cheesecake often feels like a luxurious treat reserved for special occasions. But what if you could whip up a delectable cheesecake effortlessly in your own kitchen, any time the craving strikes? Enter the easy baked cheesecake recipe – a foolproof way to achieve creamy perfection without the hassle. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe promises to deliver a slice of creamy bliss with every bite.

Why You’ll Love this Easy Cheesecake Recipe:

One of the main reasons I love this recipe is because it has two layers which makes it super silky and delicious. The creamy filling paired with the crust makes this a great recipe to try even if you’ve never made cheesecake yet.

This easy baked cheesecake recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly simple to make. Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you’ll find the steps easy to follow. Secondly, the taste is simply divine. The cream cheese base is rich and creamy, while the graham cracker crust provides a delightful crunch. The sour cream topping adds a tangy twist that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cheesecake.

With just a handful of pantry staples, including cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and a dash of vanilla, this recipe embodies simplicity at its finest. Yet, don’t let its minimalistic ingredient list fool you – each bite boasts a rich, velvety texture and a perfect balance of sweetness.

Baking a cheesecake may seem intimidating to some, but fear not – this recipe simplifies the process into easy-to-follow steps. From creating the buttery graham cracker crust to achieving that coveted creamy filling, every stage is designed to ensure success, even for beginners.

Moreover, this recipe is versatile. You can top it with your favorite fruit pie filling or preserves, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Whether you prefer the classic cherry topping or a more exotic passion fruit, the choice is yours!

Ingredients:

There are a few different things you need to make this delicious classic cheesecake recipe. Here is the list of simple ingredients you need to make a delicious cheesecake batter to bake in a buttery graham cracker crust.

Bottom layer

• 2 – 8 oz. blocks of cream cheese softened
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup sugar
• dash of vanilla extract

For Topping

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup sugar

Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 1/3 cups crushed graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter

How to make the Easy Cheesecake Recipe:

​Follow these instructions to make the perfect cheesecake in no time!

1. Mix together graham crackers crushed to fine crumbs and butter in a medium bowl.
2. Press into pie dish to make crust.
3. Bake at 350 Degrees for 10 minutes.
4. Beat in a large bowl, cream cheese, sugar, egg yolks and vanilla until a creamy texture on medium-low speed with an electric mixer.
5. Fold in egg whites with a rubber spatula.
6. Pour into crust and bake at 325 Degrees for 25 minutes.
7. While cheesecake bakes, mix sour cream and 1/ 4 cup sugar.
8. Bake at 450 Degrees for 5 minutes.
9. Cool cheesecake on a wire rack. Cut with a sharp knife for clean slices.
10. Top with with fruit pie filling or preserves and serve.

Topping Ideas:

We usually top it with cherry pie filling, but it can be served plain, with fruit preserves or even chocolate and caramel syrup. That way everyone can pick their own favorite cheesecake topping or toppings. Here are a few ideas of what to top this recipe with:

• Fresh strawberries
• Raspberries or raspberry sauce
• Lemon curd
• Strawberry sauce
• Use heavy cream to make homemade whipping cream for a topping
• Fruit pie fillings
• Fresh berries of all kinds
• fruit preserves or fruit jams
• Caramel sauce or syrup
• Hot fudge
• Fresh fruit

Variations:

Make this regular cheesecake your own! Here are a few ways that you can switch up this finished cheesecake other than adding your favorite toppings.

Cheesecake Pie: Add in your favorite fruit pie filling to the top of the pie or into the bottom layer of the cheesecake for a different take on the recipe.

Oreo Twist: Swap our the graham crackers for Oreos to make an Oreo cookie crust. You could even add crushed oreos to the first layer.

Swirled Cheesecake: Add in a swirl of chocolate or caramel sauce to the cheesecake mixture before baking. 

Nutty Crust: Incorporate crushed nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into the graham cracker crust for added flavor and texture.

Places to Take or Use This Recipe:

This dessert can be enjoyed just about anywhere! Here are a few ideas of where to take this delicious cheesecake.

• Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with a homemade cheesecake that rivals those from upscale bakeries.
• Potlucks and Gatherings: Be the star of the party by bringing along a decadent cheesecake that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
• Weekend Dessert: Treat yourself and your loved ones to a luxurious dessert without the need for a special occasion.
• Cozy Night In: It’s also a wonderful treat to have on hand for a cozy night in. 
• Patriotic Dessert: Top it with red strawberries or raspberries and blueberries for a patriotic dessert that features red, white, and blue colors.

Storing the Recipe

This cheesecake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It can also be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for when you’re expecting guests. 

Alternatively, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 1 month. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Common Questions about this Easy Baked Cheesecake Recipe:

Can the cheesecake be frozen?

The answer is yes, it can be frozen for up to a month. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese? 

While you can use low-fat cream cheese, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and richness of the cheesecake.

Do I need to use a water bath when baking the cheesecake? 

While a water bath can help prevent cracking, it’s not necessary for this recipe. The sour cream topping helps to conceal any imperfections.

Do I need to use a springform pan?

No, you do not need to a springform pan to make this creamy cheesecake. A regular pie plate, pie pan, disposable pie pan.

This easy baked cheesecake recipe is a must-try. It’s simple, delicious, and versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe to be a joy to make. So why wait? Start baking today and enjoy a slice of this heavenly dessert. Don’t forget to share your baking experience with us in the comments section below. Happy baking!

Ready to embark on your cheesecake-making journey? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family – they’re sure to be impressed by your newfound culinary skills. Cheers to indulgence, simplicity, and the joy of homemade desserts!

More delicious recipe ideas to try:

• How to Make a Heart Shaped Cake
• Snickerdoodle French Toast
• Ham and Spinach Egg Casserole
• Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins
•  Carrot Cake Cookies
• Caramel Apple Amish Friendship Bread

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Originally published on 2/20/2016 // Updated 4/11/2024