Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Large bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix until combined.
3. Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the springform pan.
4. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth.
5. Add 1 cup of sugar and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just blended.
7. Pour the cream cheese mixture into the springform pan.
8. Bake for 45 minutes or until the center is set.
9. Cool completely before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Graham cracker crumbs can be substituted with crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers.
- Butter can be substituted with margarine or vegetable oil.
- Cream cheese can be substituted with ricotta cheese.
Variations:
- Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries to the cream cheese mixture before baking.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the graham cracker crust.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
- Let the cheesecake cool completely before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the cheesecake in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the cheesecake with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
- Sprinkle the top of the cheesecake with graham cracker crumbs.
Garnishes:
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Fruit juice
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Green salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheesecake is too soft, bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- If the cheesecake is too brown on top, cover it with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake immediately after baking.
Food History:
Cheesecake has been around since ancient Greece, where it was served to athletes during the first Olympic Games.
Flavor Profiles:
This cheesecake has a sweet and creamy flavor with a crunchy graham cracker crust.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
- Serve with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
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