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[Order the Home for the Holidays Cookbook](https://shop.bakerbynature.com/) December 16, 2025 # The Best Creamy Cheesecake Recipe by Ashley Manila [](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#respond) [Jump to Recipe](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#wprm-recipe-container-43970)[Print Recipe](https://bakerbynature.com/wprm_print/the-best-cheesecake-recipe)[Pin Recipe](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbakerbynature.com%2Fextra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fbakerbynature.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2018%2F05%2Fextrathickandcreamycheesecake1-1-of-1.jpg&description=This+creamy+cheesecake+recipe+is+one+of+my+post+popular+dessert+recipes%21+Rich+and+creamy%2C+with+a+classic+graham+cracker+crust%2C+it%27s+even+better+than+the+cheesecake+factory+cheesecake.+Store+this+recipe+in+the+springform+pan+for+up+to+5+days.+Delicious+with+whipped+cream+on+top%21&is_video=false) This post may contain affiliate sales links. Please see my [full disclaimer policy](https://bakerbynature.com/privacy/) for details. # The Best Creamy Cheesecake Recipe December 16, 2025 by [Ashley Manila](https://bakerbynature.com/author/admin/) [589 Comments](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comments) *Let me teach you how to bake the best cheesecake recipe ever! This baked cheesecake has a heavenly rich and creamy cheesecake filling and classic graham cracker crust. Reader’s say it’s even* ***better than the cheesecake factory*** *cheesecake! Baked cheesecake will keep, chilled in the refrigerator, and stored in the springform pan, for 5 days\!* [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/extrathickandcreamycheesecake1234-1-of-1.jpg) Rebecca Lynne Scheetz says “ This is the BEST cheesecake I have ever made. So creamy and delicious! I can’ t wait to make it again. Hands Down THE WINNER!” ## Let’s Bake Perfect Creamy Cheesecake\! If you’re a cheesecake lover, this cheesecake recipe is going to change your life\! Because let’s be real, what’s better than than sinking a fork into a creamy slice of cheesecake? From the crunchy graham cracker crust to the silky smooth cream cheese filling… this seemingly fancy dessert is pure perfection! And actually quite easy to make at home. And did I mention that cheesecake is the ultimate holiday dessert? Because you can make it days – or even months – in advance. Which is a good thing because although it’s an easy dessert, it’s definitely a time consuming one. But you can make this dessert up to 3 days in advance and chilled in the refrigerator. [*Water bath guide*](https://bakerbynature.com/how-to-make-an-easy-water-bath-for-cheesecake/) *and cheesecake step-by-step video tutorial in the recipe card.* [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/extrathickandcreamycheesecake1-1-of-1.jpg) ## I’m Cheesecake Factory Alumni Have you ever wondered: how are cheesecake factory cheesecakes baked? Well, you’re not alone in pondering this question. I worked there over 5 years, serving dessert to thousands of cheesecake lovers. And during that time, people asked me that exact question over and over again. I’ve probably consumed over 1 million calories from cream cheese taste-testing my way to the answer! I’d take a slice or two home almost every night… sometimes even more! And quickly it became my life mission to learn how to bake next level cheesecakes. After years of research, I finally created the perfect recipe to share with you. [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Brown-White-Minimalist-Home-Decor-Pinterest-Carousel-Ad-323.jpg) ## The Best Cream Cheese? The most important ingredient in this recipe is cream cheese! With dozens of cream cheese options, it can be hard to know which variety works best, right? Well, I can tell you that after baking HUNDREDS of cheesecakes, the best cream cheese is brick-style cream cheese. I love Philadelphia brand, but use your favorite. Just be sure your cream cheese is: - Brick-Style - Plain (Unflavored) - Full-Fat - And Room Temperature (before you begin baking) [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/How-to-Make-an-Easy-Water-Bath-for-Cheesecake-1-of-1.jpg) ## Start with Room Temperature Ingredients The ingredients should always be at room temperature before use! You remove them from the fridge at least 45 minutes before you plan on baking this cheesecake recipe. And never attempt to use cold ingredients! Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly and cold eggs won’t bond with the rest of the batter. - **Cream Cheese:** Our number one ingredient, so be sure to read all my cream cheese tips above. And do not attempt to make this without cream cheese. - **Granulated Sugar:** I don’t suggest reducing the amount of sugar in this recipe. Or using an alternative sweeteners, not even brown sugar. - **Eggs:** Use large eggs and bring them to room temperature before use. You’ll use both whole eggs and egg yolks. Save egg whites for another recipe. Be sure to add the eggs one at a time, as adding eggs one at a time helps avoid over mixing. - **Vanilla:** Pure vanilla extract adds so much delicious rich flavor. Do not use artificial or imitation vanilla. - **Heavy Cream:** Aka heavy whipping cream, don’t sub with milk, half and half, or sour cream. - **Graham Cracker Crumbs:** Pre-crushed graham cracker crumbs are the easiest choice. If you can’t find them, you can crush graham crackers in a blender until they’re fine crumbs, then use them as called for in the crust. - **Butter:** Unsalted butter works best, but salted butter will work just fine. *Some people ask if they can add lemon juice to this recipe to cut the richness, and you can. But don’t add more than a teaspoon.* ## Make the Graham Cracker Crust 1. Wrap a springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil. The foil will protect the pan from the water bath, keeping your graham cracker crust nice and dry\! 2. Spray the pan with non-stick spray. Or grease the pan with butter. Greasing the pan ensures no sticking. No sticking equals perfect slices\! 3. Combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and sugar. This is your graham cracker crust mixture\! 4. Press the graham cracker crust firmly into the bottom of the springform pan. A firmly packed graham cracker crust will bake up thick and won’t crumble much when sliced. [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/How-to-Make-an-Easy-Water-Bath-for-Cheesecake-2-1-of-1.jpg) ## How to Make Cheesecake - **Cheesecake Prep:** Turn the oven on and preheat the oven 20 minutes before you plan on baking. Prep you baking pan by wrapping it with aluminum foil and spraying it with nonstick baking spray. - **Par-bake the Graham Cracker Crust:** This step ensures a crunchy graham cracker crust. Allow the crust cool as you make the batter. Press the crust up and add the sides of the pan. - **Make the Cream Cheese Batter:** Use a food processor, stand mixer, or a handheld electric mixer to make the batter. Pour the cheesecake batter on top of the crust and smooth the top. - **Bake in a Water Bath:** Place the springform pan inside roasting pan and fill with hot water. If you don’t have a roasting pan, use a large pan with high sides. *\*This post may contain affiliate links\!* ## Let’s Bake Cheesecake - **Bake the Cheesecake:** After you preheat the oven, you’ll bake the cheesecake. Until the edges look firm, but the center is a little wiggly. Don’t over bake, it’ll firm up a good amount as the cake cools. - **Cool:** The cheesecake cools in the oven first. Let it cool in the oven, without opening the oven door. Then you’ll cool again at room temperature, and finally chill in the refrigerator. This is a lot of chilling but I promise it’s worth the wait\! - **Slice and Serve:** Use a large sharp knife and wipe it between slices. Top with whipped cream right before serving! Or try homemade chocolate sauce or raspberry sauce. - **Storage:** Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge. Or follow my guide below and you can freeze this extra rich and creamy cheesecake for up to 2 months. [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/extrathickandcreamycheesecake123456-1-of-1.jpg) ## Make a Water Bath: Grab a Springform Pan and Aluminum Foil\! - A water bath is an essential step in making the best cheesecake! The water bath helps the cake stay nice and moist – and gives it that signature creamy texture! A water bath also ensures the cheesecake doesn’t crack as it begins to cools down. - You will let the cake cool in the water bath, in the oven, without opening the oven door. Then you’ll remove it from the water bath as you cool it to room temperature and eventually chill in the fridge. - I promise, making one isn’t as hard or scary as you might think, and once you do it a few times, it becomes second nature. *For the best results, I don’t suggest making this cheesecake without a water bath\!* [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/extrathickandcreamycheesecake123-1-of-1.jpg) ## How to Store Cheesecake This creamy dessert will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days! To keep it even longer, you can freeze it\! 1. Let it cool completely at room temperature! This will take several hours, so be patient. 2. Wrap the whole cake – or slices – in two layers of saran wrap. Then wrap tightly in aluminum foil. 3. Transfer to a freezer bag, tightly seal, and place in the freezer for up to 2 months. 4. To defrost, thaw in refrigerator overnight. Do not attempt to thaw in the microwave or oven\! ## Cheesecake Factory Menu Inspired Desserts: - [Oreo Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/new-york-style-oreo-cheesecake/) - [Key Lime Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/key-lime-cheesecake/) - [New York Style Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/the-best-new-york-style-cheesecake/) - [Chocolate Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/chocolate-mascarpone-cheesecake/?swcfpc=1) - [Pumpkin Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/classic-pumpkin-pie-cheesecake/) Even The Kitchn wrote a [review](https://www.thekitchn.com/baker-by-nature-cheesecake-review-23115748) on this recipe (saying it’s the only one you need)\!   ## The Best Cheesecake Recipe Ashley Manila *Want to learn how to make the best cheesecake ever? I'm so excited to share this recipe with you – and teach you how to bake cheesecake! With a rich and creamy texture and a crunchy graham cracker crust… it’s even better than the cheesecake factory cheesecake.* *Chilled in the refrigerator, you can store in the springform pan for up to 5 days, and top with whipped cream right before serving.* [*Water bath guide*](https://bakerbynature.com/how-to-make-an-easy-water-bath-for-cheesecake/) *here and cheesecake step-by-step video tutorial in the recipe card.* 4\.97 from 239 votes [PRINT RECIPE](https://bakerbynature.com/wprm_print/the-best-cheesecake-recipe) [PIN RECIPE](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbakerbynature.com%2Fextra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fbakerbynature.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2018%2F05%2Fextrathickandcreamycheesecake1-1-of-1.jpg&description=This+creamy+cheesecake+recipe+is+one+of+my+post+popular+dessert+recipes%21+Rich+and+creamy%2C+with+a+classic+graham+cracker+crust%2C+it%27s+even+better+than+the+cheesecake+factory+cheesecake.+Store+this+recipe+in+the+springform+pan+for+up+to+5+days.+Delicious+with+whipped+cream+on+top%21&is_video=false) Prep Time 30 minutes mins Cook Time 1 hour hr 8 minutes mins Inactive Time 8 hours hrs Total Time 9 hours hrs 38 minutes mins Course Dessert Cuisine American Servings 1 9-inch cheesecake ### Ingredients #### For the Crust: - 2 cups (198 grams) graham cracker crumbs - 1/3 cup (67 grams) sugar - 7 tablespoons (99 grams) butter, melted #### For the Creamy Cheesecake: - 5 blocks full-fat cream cheese (40 ounces total) room temperature - 1 and 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar - 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract - 5 large eggs room temperature - 3 large egg yolks room temperature - 1/2 cup (113ml) heavy cream room temperature (Use an extra 1/4 cup for even creamier cheesecake) ### Instructions #### For the Crust: - Preheat oven to 350 degrees (F). Lightly spray a 9″ springform pan with non-stick spray. - Wrap the bottom and sides of the pan with heavy duty tinfoil. I recommend doing several diligent layers here to ensure no water creeps through when you place the pan in the water bath. Set pan aside. - In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; stir well to combine. Firmly pat the mixture into the prepared pan. - Bake in preheated oven for 8 minutes. Place partially baked crust on a cooling rack and set aside while you prepare the filling. #### For the Creamy Cheesecake Filling: - In the body of a high power blender, food processor, stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, or in a very large bowl using a hand held mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth, scraping the bowl as needed. - Add sugar and vanilla and beat smooth, scraping down the sides and bottom of bowl as needed. Add in the eggs and yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition. - Add in the cream and beat until it’s just incorporated in the batter. - Pour filling into prepared crust and, using a silicone spatula, smooth the top. - Place the cheesecake pan into a large, deep pan. Fill the pan with 2 inches of hot water. This is your water bath and will help ensure your cheesecake comes out crack free. - Carefully place the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes. Turn oven off and let the cheesecake sit, undisturbed, for 45 minutes, inside the oven with the door shut. The cheesecake should be still slightly wiggly. - Remove cake from oven and gently run a knife very around the edge of the cake. Place the cheesecake pan on a cooling rack and cool completely, then loosely cover the pan with saran wrap and chill for at least 8 hours. - Cheesecake will keep, covered in the fridge, for 5 days. Cheesecake may be frozen for 2 months. Thaw overnight before slicing. ### Video Keyword cheesecake, cheesecake recipes, Christmas recipes, dessert Tried it and loved it?Snap a picture and share it with me on Instagram [@Bakerbynature](https://www.instagram.com/Bakerbynature) and by using the hashtag [\#BakerByNature](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/BakerByNature) [Share](https://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbakerbynature.com%2Fextra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake%2F) [Pin439K](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fbakerbynature.com%2Fextra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake%2F) [Tweet](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=The+Best+Creamy+Cheesecake+Recipe&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbakerbynature.com%2Fextra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake%2F) 439K Shares ### Other *Posts You May Like* [](https://bakerbynature.com/5-ingredient-raspberry-cheesecake-thumbprint-cookies/ "Permanent Link to The Best Thumbprint Cookies Recipe") ###### [Christmas](https://bakerbynature.com/category/holiday/christmas/) ### [The Best Thumbprint Cookies Recipe](https://bakerbynature.com/5-ingredient-raspberry-cheesecake-thumbprint-cookies/ "Permanent Link to The Best Thumbprint Cookies Recipe") [](https://bakerbynature.com/classic-pumpkin-pie-cheesecake/ "Permanent Link to The Best Pumpkin Cheesecake") ###### [Cakes](https://bakerbynature.com/category/cakes/) ### [The Best Pumpkin Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/classic-pumpkin-pie-cheesecake/ "Permanent Link to The Best Pumpkin Cheesecake") [](https://bakerbynature.com/pecan-pie-cheesecake/ "Permanent Link to Pecan Pie Cheesecake") ###### [Cakes](https://bakerbynature.com/category/cakes/) ### [Pecan Pie Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/pecan-pie-cheesecake/ "Permanent Link to Pecan Pie Cheesecake") [](https://bakerbynature.com/lemon-cheesecake-recipe/ "Permanent Link to The Best Lemon Cheesecake Recipe") ###### [Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/category/cakes/cheesecake/) ### [The Best Lemon Cheesecake Recipe](https://bakerbynature.com/lemon-cheesecake-recipe/ "Permanent Link to The Best Lemon Cheesecake Recipe") [](https://bakerbynature.com/mini-cheesecakes/ "Permanent Link to Mini Cheesecakes Recipe (Graham Cracker Crust)") ###### [Brunch](https://bakerbynature.com/category/brunch/) ### [Mini Cheesecakes Recipe (Graham Cracker Crust)](https://bakerbynature.com/mini-cheesecakes/ "Permanent Link to Mini Cheesecakes Recipe (Graham Cracker Crust)") Filed Under: [Cakes](https://bakerbynature.com/category/cakes/), [Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/category/cakes/cheesecake/), [Date Night Ideas](https://bakerbynature.com/category/date-night-ideas/), [Dessert Recipes](https://bakerbynature.com/category/dessert-recipes/), [Holiday](https://bakerbynature.com/category/holiday/), [Recipes](https://bakerbynature.com/category/recipes/), [Videos](https://bakerbynature.com/category/videos/) Tagged With: [cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/tag/cheesecake/), [Cheesecake Factory](https://bakerbynature.com/tag/cheesecake-factory/), [how to make cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/tag/how-to-make-cheesecake/) ## Reader Interactions ### Comments 1. Sherry Newman says [March 19, 2026 at 4:59 pm](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-550766) Can I use the prebaked graham cracker crust instead of making my own [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-550766) 2. Jean says [March 4, 2026 at 1:10 am](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-550245)  This is the best cheesecake I have ever made, it was amazing! Delicious and crack free. Thank you for the wonderful instructions too\! [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-550245) 3. Bill Sandbulte says [March 2, 2026 at 10:09 pm](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-550197) Does time change if you do 2 at a time? [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-550197) 4. Idelle says [February 28, 2026 at 4:04 pm](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-550113)  Great tasting cheesecake, easy to follow recipe\! Had extra filling which was poured into 2 x 3.25″ tins (tuna cans) with graham cracker crust. Baked alongside the 9″ cake in the same water bath. [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-550113) - [Ashley Manila](http://bakerbynature.coms/) says [February 28, 2026 at 4:30 pm](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-550115) So happy you enjoyed the recipe and were able to make use of the extra filling 🙂 [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-550115) 5. Emily Keener says [February 16, 2026 at 4:50 pm](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-549777)  I have 2 questions. When I cut the cheese cake the crust doesn’t come with it. What am I doing wrong. Second, how do I get the crust off of the springform bottom so that I can freeze it. I don’t want to freeze the bottom because I’d like to use it to make the cheesecake again while the other freezes [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-549777) - Joyce Glenn says [February 22, 2026 at 3:23 pm](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-549942)  Use parchment paper on tbe bottom of your pan to easily remove the cake from the bottom of the pan and freeze the cake, in addition, I add marcapone cheese to this cake and ricotta as well as fresh grated lemon zest, these additions make a much more decadent cheesecake [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-549942) - Marya says [March 4, 2026 at 2:28 am](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-550247) If you mind me asking. I would love to try it this way. How much of the other cheeses do you use? Also is the in addition to the cream cheese? Tia [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-550247) - The tasty novice says [February 26, 2026 at 3:56 pm](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-550046) Parchment paper would’ve made a great difference to remove the cake from the pan, but the spring pan should’ve had a clap on the side that loosens the pan to come apart only leaving the cake on the bottom of the pan. [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-550046) 6. Regan says [February 11, 2026 at 1:57 pm](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-549669) Has anyone had any success making these as mini cheesecakes in a muffin tin? Any suggestions on the water bath and baking time? [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-549669) 7. Curtis Wilkerson says [February 6, 2026 at 3:04 am](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-549467)  What’s the temp for the cheesecake? Thx [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-549467) 8. Melissa says [January 20, 2026 at 2:54 pm](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-40/#comment-548039)  My whole family loved this cheesecake! My 1st try was a disaster, my fault. The 2nd one was much better, and the 3rd one was easy\! [Reply](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/#comment-548039) [« Older Comments](https://bakerbynature.com/extra-rich-and-creamy-cheesecake/comment-page-39/#comments) ## Primary Sidebar ### About   Ashley Manila is a dessert lover, wine enthusiast, pasta aficionado, and recipe perfectionist! When she's not cooking or baking, she's usually entertaining friends or traveling around the world seeking out good food\! 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*Let me teach you how to bake the best cheesecake recipe ever! This baked cheesecake has a heavenly rich and creamy cheesecake filling and classic graham cracker crust. Reader’s say it’s even* ***better than the cheesecake factory*** *cheesecake! Baked cheesecake will keep, chilled in the refrigerator, and stored in the springform pan, for 5 days\!* [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/extrathickandcreamycheesecake1234-1-of-1.jpg) Rebecca Lynne Scheetz says “ This is the BEST cheesecake I have ever made. So creamy and delicious! I can’ t wait to make it again. Hands Down THE WINNER!” ## Let’s Bake Perfect Creamy Cheesecake\! If you’re a cheesecake lover, this cheesecake recipe is going to change your life\! Because let’s be real, what’s better than than sinking a fork into a creamy slice of cheesecake? From the crunchy graham cracker crust to the silky smooth cream cheese filling… this seemingly fancy dessert is pure perfection! And actually quite easy to make at home. And did I mention that cheesecake is the ultimate holiday dessert? Because you can make it days – or even months – in advance. Which is a good thing because although it’s an easy dessert, it’s definitely a time consuming one. But you can make this dessert up to 3 days in advance and chilled in the refrigerator. [*Water bath guide*](https://bakerbynature.com/how-to-make-an-easy-water-bath-for-cheesecake/) *and cheesecake step-by-step video tutorial in the recipe card.* [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/extrathickandcreamycheesecake1-1-of-1.jpg) ## I’m Cheesecake Factory Alumni Have you ever wondered: how are cheesecake factory cheesecakes baked? Well, you’re not alone in pondering this question. I worked there over 5 years, serving dessert to thousands of cheesecake lovers. And during that time, people asked me that exact question over and over again. I’ve probably consumed over 1 million calories from cream cheese taste-testing my way to the answer! I’d take a slice or two home almost every night… sometimes even more! And quickly it became my life mission to learn how to bake next level cheesecakes. After years of research, I finally created the perfect recipe to share with you. [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Brown-White-Minimalist-Home-Decor-Pinterest-Carousel-Ad-323.jpg) ## The Best Cream Cheese? The most important ingredient in this recipe is cream cheese! With dozens of cream cheese options, it can be hard to know which variety works best, right? Well, I can tell you that after baking HUNDREDS of cheesecakes, the best cream cheese is brick-style cream cheese. I love Philadelphia brand, but use your favorite. Just be sure your cream cheese is: - Brick-Style - Plain (Unflavored) - Full-Fat - And Room Temperature (before you begin baking) [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/How-to-Make-an-Easy-Water-Bath-for-Cheesecake-1-of-1.jpg) ## Start with Room Temperature Ingredients The ingredients should always be at room temperature before use! You remove them from the fridge at least 45 minutes before you plan on baking this cheesecake recipe. And never attempt to use cold ingredients! Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly and cold eggs won’t bond with the rest of the batter. - **Cream Cheese:** Our number one ingredient, so be sure to read all my cream cheese tips above. And do not attempt to make this without cream cheese. - **Granulated Sugar:** I don’t suggest reducing the amount of sugar in this recipe. Or using an alternative sweeteners, not even brown sugar. - **Eggs:** Use large eggs and bring them to room temperature before use. You’ll use both whole eggs and egg yolks. Save egg whites for another recipe. Be sure to add the eggs one at a time, as adding eggs one at a time helps avoid over mixing. - **Vanilla:** Pure vanilla extract adds so much delicious rich flavor. Do not use artificial or imitation vanilla. - **Heavy Cream:** Aka heavy whipping cream, don’t sub with milk, half and half, or sour cream. - **Graham Cracker Crumbs:** Pre-crushed graham cracker crumbs are the easiest choice. If you can’t find them, you can crush graham crackers in a blender until they’re fine crumbs, then use them as called for in the crust. - **Butter:** Unsalted butter works best, but salted butter will work just fine. *Some people ask if they can add lemon juice to this recipe to cut the richness, and you can. But don’t add more than a teaspoon.* ## Make the Graham Cracker Crust 1. Wrap a springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil. The foil will protect the pan from the water bath, keeping your graham cracker crust nice and dry\! 2. Spray the pan with non-stick spray. Or grease the pan with butter. Greasing the pan ensures no sticking. No sticking equals perfect slices\! 3. Combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and sugar. This is your graham cracker crust mixture\! 4. Press the graham cracker crust firmly into the bottom of the springform pan. A firmly packed graham cracker crust will bake up thick and won’t crumble much when sliced. [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/How-to-Make-an-Easy-Water-Bath-for-Cheesecake-2-1-of-1.jpg) ## How to Make Cheesecake - **Cheesecake Prep:** Turn the oven on and preheat the oven 20 minutes before you plan on baking. Prep you baking pan by wrapping it with aluminum foil and spraying it with nonstick baking spray. - **Par-bake the Graham Cracker Crust:** This step ensures a crunchy graham cracker crust. Allow the crust cool as you make the batter. Press the crust up and add the sides of the pan. - **Make the Cream Cheese Batter:** Use a food processor, stand mixer, or a handheld electric mixer to make the batter. Pour the cheesecake batter on top of the crust and smooth the top. - **Bake in a Water Bath:** Place the springform pan inside roasting pan and fill with hot water. If you don’t have a roasting pan, use a large pan with high sides. *\*This post may contain affiliate links\!* ## Let’s Bake Cheesecake - **Bake the Cheesecake:** After you preheat the oven, you’ll bake the cheesecake. Until the edges look firm, but the center is a little wiggly. Don’t over bake, it’ll firm up a good amount as the cake cools. - **Cool:** The cheesecake cools in the oven first. Let it cool in the oven, without opening the oven door. Then you’ll cool again at room temperature, and finally chill in the refrigerator. This is a lot of chilling but I promise it’s worth the wait\! - **Slice and Serve:** Use a large sharp knife and wipe it between slices. Top with whipped cream right before serving! Or try homemade chocolate sauce or raspberry sauce. - **Storage:** Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge. Or follow my guide below and you can freeze this extra rich and creamy cheesecake for up to 2 months. [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/extrathickandcreamycheesecake123456-1-of-1.jpg) ## Make a Water Bath: Grab a Springform Pan and Aluminum Foil\! - A water bath is an essential step in making the best cheesecake! The water bath helps the cake stay nice and moist – and gives it that signature creamy texture! A water bath also ensures the cheesecake doesn’t crack as it begins to cools down. - You will let the cake cool in the water bath, in the oven, without opening the oven door. Then you’ll remove it from the water bath as you cool it to room temperature and eventually chill in the fridge. - I promise, making one isn’t as hard or scary as you might think, and once you do it a few times, it becomes second nature. *For the best results, I don’t suggest making this cheesecake without a water bath\!* [](https://bakerbynature.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/extrathickandcreamycheesecake123-1-of-1.jpg) ## How to Store Cheesecake This creamy dessert will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days! To keep it even longer, you can freeze it\! 1. Let it cool completely at room temperature! This will take several hours, so be patient. 2. Wrap the whole cake – or slices – in two layers of saran wrap. Then wrap tightly in aluminum foil. 3. Transfer to a freezer bag, tightly seal, and place in the freezer for up to 2 months. 4. To defrost, thaw in refrigerator overnight. Do not attempt to thaw in the microwave or oven\! ## Cheesecake Factory Menu Inspired Desserts: - [Oreo Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/new-york-style-oreo-cheesecake/) - [Key Lime Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/key-lime-cheesecake/) - [New York Style Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/the-best-new-york-style-cheesecake/) - [Chocolate Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/chocolate-mascarpone-cheesecake/?swcfpc=1) - [Pumpkin Cheesecake](https://bakerbynature.com/classic-pumpkin-pie-cheesecake/) Even The Kitchn wrote a [review](https://www.thekitchn.com/baker-by-nature-cheesecake-review-23115748) on this recipe (saying it’s the only one you need)\!