How to Make Cheesecake 2015

How to Make Cheesecake 2015

Don't be intimidated by cheesecake's tricky reputation. With these six easy steps, you'll be enjoying an airy, silky smooth cheesecake in no time.

Step 1

Gather Ingredients

To get started, you'll need 2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup melted butter (or 1/2 cup margarine), 5 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened, 1 3/4 cups sugar, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, 5 large eggs, 2 egg yolks, 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream and 1 teaspoon, finely shredded, lemon rind 

Step 2

Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 325°F. Line the base of a 9-inch springform pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil and then attach the sides.

To prevent leaking, use enough foil so you can fold the aluminum up the outside sides of the pan. Grease the bottom and inside sides of the pan.

Step 3

Make the Crust

Stir together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.

Press the mixture about 1 1/2 inches up the sides of the pan and along the entire bottom.

Step 4

Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, whip the cream cheese, sugar, flour and vanilla together until fluffy. Beat in the eggs and egg yolks on a low speed until combined. Be careful not to over mix.

Stir in the heavy whipping cream and lemon peel.

Step 5

Add Filling to the Crust

Pour the mixture into the springform pan. Place the pan in a hot water bath with water just halfway up the pan.

TIP

Why use a water bath? A water bath keeps the oven moisture high and the heat gentle, which helps prevent your cheesecake from cracking.

Step 6

Bake & Loosen the Edges

Bake in oven for 1 1/2 hours, or until the center appears nearly set. Cool for 15 minutes.

Carefully run a greased knife around the rim of the cheesecake to loosen it from the edge of the pan. This will help prevent cracking while cooling.

Step 7

Serve & Enjoy!

Cool the cheesecake completely, then cover and chill in the refrigerator for 4 to 24 hours. After its chilled, get creative with some delicious toppings like cherries, chocolate or anything else you like.