Best Easy Cheesecake (Printable Version)

Creamy cheesecake with graham cracker crust, topped with berries or caramel for a delightful treat.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Crust

01 - 180 g graham cracker crumbs
02 - 50 g granulated sugar
03 - 85 g unsalted butter, melted
04 - 5 ml vanilla extract

→ Filling

05 - 680 g cream cheese, softened
06 - 150 g granulated sugar
07 - 3 large eggs, at room temperature
08 - 10 ml vanilla extract

→ Optional toppings

09 - Mixed berries
10 - Caramel sauce
11 - Chocolate chips
12 - Lemon curd
13 - Whipped cream

# Guide to Cooking:

01 - Preheat the oven to 175°C.
02 - Using a food processor, pulse graham cracker sheets until finely ground. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter, then pulse until the mixture is well combined.
03 - Press the crumb mixture firmly into the base and up the sides of a baking dish. Set aside.
04 - Beat cream cheese on low speed with a mixer for 5-10 seconds to soften.
05 - Gradually add granulated sugar while mixing on low speed. Scrape down bowl sides and add vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
06 - Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Scrape the bowl and continue mixing on low until a smooth and silky filling forms.
07 - Pour the filling over the prepared crust, spreading evenly.
08 - Bake for 22-25 minutes until the center slightly jiggles when the pan is gently shaken.
09 - Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool slowly for 45-60 minutes to prevent cracking.
10 - Remove from oven and cool completely on the countertop.
11 - Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set fully.
12 - Slice and garnish with desired toppings before serving.
13 - Keep any remaining cheesecake refrigerated.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth filling. Slow cooling minimizes cracks, and thorough chilling enhances texture and flavor.