Classic Baked Cheesecake Recipe with Graham Cracker Crust

There’s nothing quite like a homemade baked cheesecake with a silky-smooth filling and a crisp, buttery crust. This classic cheesecake is rich yet surprisingly light, with a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, birthday, dinner party, or simply satisfying a cheesecake craving, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results using simple ingredients.The combination of a graham cracker and toasted pecan crust creates the perfect foundation for the luscious cream cheese filling. With a few helpful techniques, you’ll achieve a beautifully smooth cheesecake that’s easy enough for confident beginners and impressive enough for special occasions.

Classic Baked Cheesecake Recipe with Graham Cracker Crust

Learn how to make a rich, creamy baked cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker and pecan crust. This foolproof recipe delivers a smooth, crack-free cheesecake every time.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 6 hours hrs

Servings: 12 slice

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 540

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 16 –18 graham crackers
• 1 cup toasted pecans
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 5 tablespoons melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 36 ounces cream cheese room temperature
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Eggs and egg yolks added one at a time (use the amount shown in your recipe preparation)

Method

 

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the graham crackers, toasted pecans, and sugar into a food processor. Blend until fine crumbs form.
3. Pour in the melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles damp sand. If needed, add a little more butter until the crumbs hold together when squeezed.
4. If you don’t have a food processor, crush the crackers in a zip-top bag, finely chop the pecans, then mix everything together by hand.

Step 2: Press the Crust

1. Transfer the crumb mixture into a springform pan.
2. Press the crumbs firmly across the bottom and well up the sides using a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup.
3. Finish by pressing the top edge firmly with your thumb to prevent loose crumbs.
4. Bake for just under 10 minutes, until lightly golden and fragrant.
5. Allow the crust to cool while preparing the filling.
6. Shortcut: If you prefer, you can skip baking and simply chill the crust before filling.

Step 3: Beat the Cream Cheese

1. Place the room-temperature cream cheese into a large mixing bowl.
2. Beat until completely smooth and creamy.
3. Add the sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
4. Scrape down the bowl thoroughly to eliminate any unmixed cream cheese.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Mix in:
2. Salt
3. Sour cream
4. Vanilla extract
5. Gradually sprinkle in the flour while mixing to prevent lumps.
6. Scrape the bowl once again until everything is perfectly smooth.

Step 5: Add the Eggs

1. Add the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, mixing after each addition.
2. The batter should become glossy, silky, and completely smooth without any lumps.
3. Avoid overmixing once the eggs have been incorporated.

Step 6: Fill the Pan

1. Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust.
2. Smooth the surface if necessary.
3. If you have extra batter, divide it into muffin cups to make mini cheesecakes.
4. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet for easier handling.

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
2. Without opening the oven for long, reduce the temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue baking for 40 minutes.
3. The cheesecake should be slightly puffed with a gentle wobble in the center.
4. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool before chilling thoroughly.

Notes

A classic baked cheesecake never goes out of style, and this recipe delivers everything you want in a homemade dessert: a crisp buttery crust, an ultra-creamy filling, and a smooth finish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether topped with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a spoonful of cherry topping, every slice is rich, satisfying, and sure to impress family and friends.