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Classic Rustic Cracked Cheesecake

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A simple, easy-to-make rustic cracked cheesecake with a creamy filling and buttery crust, perfect for any occasion and crowd-pleasing dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons (15 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture looks like wet sand.
  3. Press the crumb mixture evenly onto the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to pack it tightly. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.
  5. Gradually add granulated sugar, beating until fully incorporated and silky, about 2 minutes.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended after each. Avoid overmixing.
  7. Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and combined.
  8. Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the batter and fold gently with a spatula until just mixed.
  9. Pour the batter into the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  10. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55-65 minutes. The edges should be set but the center will jiggle slightly when shaken.
  11. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
  12. Remove from oven, run a knife around the edge to loosen, and refrigerate uncovered for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  13. Release the springform and slice with a hot, dry knife for clean cuts.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients to avoid lumps and cracking beyond the rustic look. Avoid overmixing to prevent excessive cracks. Gradual cooling in the oven with the door cracked helps prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracking. For fewer cracks, a water bath can be used but cracks add rustic charm. Heat knife before slicing for clean cuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: rustic cheesecake, cracked cheesecake, easy cheesecake recipe, homemade dessert, classic cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust

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