Cheesecake Recipe

Crust Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix well. 3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. 4. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool.

Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat 4 packages (8 ounces each) of softened cream cheese until smooth. 2. Gradually add 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar, then beat in 4 large eggs one at a time. 3. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of sour cream. 4. Pour the filling over the prepared crust.

Baking

1. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan, then fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. 2. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set. 3. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. 4. Remove cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Serving

Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator, carefully run a knife around the edge to loosen it from the pan, then remove the springform pan side. Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!