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Philadelphia Cheesecake a timeless dessert that’s incredibly rich and creamy, this Philadelphia Cheesecake requires just five simple ingredients for the filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Elegance: With only a handful of ingredients, this cheesecake proves that less can be more.
Unmatched Creaminess: The high cream cheese content ensures a velvety smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
Versatile Base: The classic flavor profile makes it a perfect canvas for a variety of toppings, from fresh fruit to decadent sauces.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this cheesecake a day or two in advance, making it ideal for entertaining.
Guaranteed Success: With clear instructions and straightforward techniques, this recipe is practically foolproof.

Introduction

This Philadelphia Cheesecake recipe stands out for its simplicity and purity. Unlike many cheesecakes that incorporate sour cream or heavy cream, this version relies solely on the richness of Philadelphia cream cheese. This results in a dense, intensely creamy texture and a flavor that’s both tangy and subtly sweet. The buttery graham cracker crust provides a delightful contrast to the smooth filling, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to deliver exceptional results. The key to success lies in using high-quality ingredients and following the instructions carefully. The water bath technique ensures even baking and prevents cracking, resulting in a cheesecake that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup (67 grams) granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (85 grams) salted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 32 ounces (908 grams) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) lemon juice

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Step 2: Press the Crust
- Transfer the crumb mixture to a 9-inch springform pan. Press firmly and evenly onto the bottom of the pan. You can use the bottom of a measuring cup to help create a smooth, compact crust.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
- Bake the crust for 7-8 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely while preparing the filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Flavorings
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as it can cause the cheesecake to crack.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice until just combined.

COOK Rating: 4.99 from 67 votes

Serving Suggestions:

Classic Topping: Cherry pie filling is a timeless choice that complements the richness of the cheesecake.
Fresh Fruit: Arrange a colorful assortment of fresh berries, sliced peaches, or other seasonal fruits on top of the cheesecake for a refreshing and vibrant presentation.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle warm chocolate ganache or melted chocolate over the cheesecake for a decadent and indulgent treat.
Caramel Sauce: A generous drizzle of caramel sauce adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the cheesecake.
Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a swirl of Cool Whip for a light and airy finish.
Candy Crunch: Sprinkle chopped Heath bars, M&Ms, or other favorite candies on top of the cheesecake for added texture and flavor.

Tips:

Room Temperature is Key: Ensure that the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing the filling. This will help create a smooth and lump-free batter.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the filling can incorporate too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking. Mix on low speed and only until the ingredients are just combined.
Water Bath for Perfection: Using a water bath is highly recommended to ensure even baking and prevent cracking. Wrap the springform pan tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches about 1 inch up the sides of the springform pan.
Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven after baking. This will help prevent cracking and ensure a smooth, even texture.
Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)

Nutrition Information: (Per serving, based on 8 servings) Calories: 693 kcal Protein: 10g Sodium: 550mg

Conclusion

This Philadelphia Cheesecake recipe is a testament to the idea that simple ingredients, when combined with care and attention, can create something truly extraordinary. Its rich, creamy texture and classic flavor profile make it a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this cheesecake is a perfect choice.

Q1: Can I use a different type of crust? A: Absolutely! While the graham cracker crust is traditional, you can easily substitute it with a shortbread crust, a vanilla wafer crust, or even a chocolate cookie crust. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q2: What if I don’t have a springform pan? A: A springform pan is ideal for cheesecakes because it allows you to easily remove the finished dessert without damaging it. However, if you don’t have one, you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. After the cheesecake has chilled, you can lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper.

Q3: How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking? A: Cracking is a common issue with cheesecakes, but there are several things you can do to minimize the risk. First, avoid overmixing the filling. Second, use a water bath to ensure even baking. Third, allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven after baking.

Q4: Can I add flavorings to the filling? A: Yes, you can definitely customize the flavor of the filling to your liking. Some popular additions include lemon zest, orange zest, almond extract, or a swirl of fruit puree.

Q5: How long will the cheesecake keep in the refrigerator? A: Properly stored, this cheesecake will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.