Classic Cheesecake with Sour Cream Topping

This Classic Cheesecake with Sour Cream Topping is a timeless dessert that combines a rich, creamy filling with a tangy topping, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for any occasion, this cheesecake is both easy to make and impressively delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

Filling:

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 prepared graham cracker crust

Topping:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This will give your cheesecake a rich and velvety texture.
3. Fill the Crust: Pour the filling mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
5. Prepare the Topping: While the cheesecake is baking, prepare the sour cream topping. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
6. Add the Topping: After the cheesecake has baked for 35 minutes, remove it from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Carefully spread the sour cream topping over the cheesecake, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
7. Final Bake: Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This brief baking period will set the sour cream topping without overcooking it.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled. This will help the flavors meld together and the cheesecake to firm up.

Bonus Tip

For an added touch of flavor and elegance, consider topping the chilled cheesecake with fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The fresh fruit will add a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the creamy cheesecake.

Conclusion

This Classic Cheesecake with Sour Cream Topping is a dessert that never goes out of style. Its smooth, creamy filling, combined with the tangy and sweet sour cream topping, creates a perfect balance of flavors that is both indulgent and refreshing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the rich, satisfying taste of this timeless dessert!