Description
A classic Philadelphia cream cheese-based cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, baked in a water bath for a perfectly smooth and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 packages (8 oz each) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for the crust
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool while preparing the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened Philadelphia cream cheese for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently. Add sugar gradually and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until each is incorporated. Avoid over-beating to prevent introducing too much air.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust. Tap the pan gently on the counter several times to release any trapped air bubbles. Place the springform pan on a large piece of aluminum foil and fold the foil up around the sides to create a waterproof barrier.
- Place the foil-wrapped cheesecake in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly for 1 hour. Then remove from oven and cool completely before refrigerating.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use low-fat Philadelphia cream cheese to reduce calories by 25%
- Consider substituting half the sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia
- Add fresh berries for antioxidants and natural sweetness
- Allow all ingredients to reach room temperature for a smoother batter with fewer lumps
- For best results, chill the cheesecake for 24 hours before serving
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 8g
Keywords: cheesecake philadelphia, cream cheese dessert, classic cheesecake, philadelphia cheesecake, water bath cheesecake