Basic Philly Cheesecake Recipe

Indulge in the creamy richness of this classic Philly Cheesecake! This recipe skips the lemon and sour cream for a pure, decadent cheesecake experience. Perfect for beginner bakers, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers a flawlessly smooth and delicious dessert.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 70 mins
Calories 394.4 kcal
Protein 13g
Rating 4.1 (28 Reviews)
Basic Philly Cheesecake 87

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Basic Philly Cheesecake

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 3 (8 ounce) packages softened cream cheese
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional topping, quantity as desired

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How to Make Basic Philly Cheesecake

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter in a medium bowl. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  3. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and increase oven temperature to 450°F (230°C).
  4. In a large bowl, beat 3 (8 ounce) packages of softened cream cheese with 1 ½ cups granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  6. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  7. Pour the filling over the prepared crust.
  8. Bake for 10 minutes at 450°F (230°C). Reduce oven temperature to 250°F (120°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes more, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges and the center is just slightly jiggly.
  9. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
  10. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
  11. Once completely cool, run a thin knife or spatula around the edge of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake.
  12. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
  13. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.
  14. Top individual slices with your favorite toppings (fresh berries, chocolate sauce, whipped cream) just before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

13 g

Sugar

94g

Fat

72g

Carbs

9g