This classic 6-inch baked cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that is perfect for small gatherings or a delightful treat for yourself. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth cream cheese filling, it delivers a satisfying sweetness in every slice.
The recipe is simple and requires basic baking techniques. You can easily customize it with toppings like fresh fruit, chocolate ganache, or caramel sauce to enhance its flavor.
Visual Appeal of the Cheesecake
The sight of a beautifully baked 6-inch cheesecake can instantly brighten any gathering. Its golden-brown top, perfectly baked to a delicate hue, invites admiration and anticipation.
Placed on a rustic wooden table, the cheesecake stands out as a centerpiece, enhanced by the vibrant red of fresh strawberries and the glossy drizzle of chocolate sauce. This combination not only pleases the eye but also hints at the delightful flavors waiting to be savored.
A slice has been cut out, revealing the creamy filling and the crumbly graham cracker crust, showcasing the dessert’s inviting texture. The fork resting beside the plate beckons you to indulge in this sweet treat.
Ingredients that Make a Difference
The foundation of this cheesecake lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. A buttery graham cracker crust provides a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the smooth cream cheese filling.
Using fresh strawberries adds a burst of flavor and color, while a drizzle of chocolate sauce elevates the dessert to new heights. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture.
With just a handful of components, this recipe allows for creativity. Consider adding your favorite toppings or flavorings to personalize your cheesecake experience.
Preparation Process
Creating this cheesecake is a straightforward process that can be accomplished in about an hour. Start by preheating the oven and preparing the crust, which involves mixing graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
Pressing this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan sets the stage for the creamy filling. The filling itself is a simple blend of cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and a touch of vanilla, resulting in a rich and smooth consistency.
After pouring the filling over the crust, the cheesecake bakes until the center is just set, creating a perfect texture that is both creamy and light.
Cooling and Serving
Cooling is a crucial step in the cheesecake-making process. After baking, turning off the oven and allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually helps prevent cracks on the surface.
Once cooled, refrigerating the cheesecake for several hours ensures that it firms up, making it easier to slice. When ready to serve, removing it from the springform pan reveals a beautifully shaped dessert, ready to be adorned with fresh strawberries and chocolate sauce.
Each slice promises a delightful experience, with the creamy filling contrasting beautifully against the crunchy crust.
Nutritional Information
This cheesecake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also offers a reasonable nutritional profile. Each slice contains approximately 320 calories, with a balance of fats and carbohydrates that makes it a satisfying dessert option.
With 22 grams of fat and 6 grams of protein, this dessert can be enjoyed in moderation, making it a delightful addition to any meal or celebration.
Whether shared with friends or savored alone, this cheesecake is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Customizing Your Cheesecake
One of the joys of making cheesecake is the ability to customize it to your liking. While the classic version is undeniably delicious, experimenting with different toppings and flavors can create a unique dessert experience.
Consider adding a layer of fruit preserves, a sprinkle of nuts, or even a swirl of caramel for added richness. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the cheesecake to suit any occasion.
With each variation, you can create a new favorite that reflects your personal taste, making this dessert a versatile choice for any gathering.
Easy Baked Cheesecake Recipe
This baked cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and eggs. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 6-inch springform pan.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream and flour until smooth.
- Bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
- Cool: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve as is or with your favorite toppings.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4-6 slices
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g