Ingredients for A Masterpiece Cheesecake
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- Butter
- Powdered Sugar
- Flour
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese
- 4 large eggs
- Sugar
How to Make A Masterpiece Cheesecake
- **Prepare the Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) melted unsalted butter. Mix well until evenly moistened.
- **Press into Pan:** Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even layer.
- **Chill the Crust:** Refrigerate the crust for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the filling.
- **Make the Filling:** In a large bowl, beat 3 (8 ounce) packages of cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually beat in 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar until well combined.
- **Add Eggs and Flavor:** Beat in 4 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- **Pour and Bake:** Pour the filling over the chilled grahamcracker crust. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Pour enough hot water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan (this creates a water bath for even baking).
- **Bake:** Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but the center is still slightly jiggly.
- **Cool Down:** Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This prevents cracking.
- **Cool Completely:** Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.
- **Decorate (Optional):** Decorate with your favorite fruits, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream before serving.
Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor
Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
20 g
Sugar
128g
Fat
113g
Carbs
16g