Classic American Cheesecake

Ingredients

• 200g graham crackers or digestive biscuits
• 100g unsalted butter, melted
• 900g cream cheese, softened
• 250g granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 200ml sour cream
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Crush the graham crackers and mix with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, mix well.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
5. Mix in sour cream and flour until just combined.
6. Pour the filling over the crust in the pan.
7. Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the center is almost set. It may still jiggle slightly.
8. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually.
9. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother texture.
• Wrap the pan in foil to prevent cracking if baking in a water bath.
• Top with fresh berries or a fruit sauce before serving for extra flavor.