If there’s one dessert that never fails to impress, it’s a fluffy baked cheesecake. Light, airy, and creamy with just the right balance of sweetness and tang, this cheesecake melts in your mouth and leaves you craving more. Unlike dense New York–style versions, this baked cheesecake has a delicate, cloud-like texture that makes it feel indulgent yet refreshing. Perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is the ultimate show-stopper.
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Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
Cream Cheese (16 oz / 450 g) – The heart of the cheesecake, providing that rich, tangy flavor and creamy base.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup / 200 g) – Sweetens the filling while helping balance the tang of cream cheese.
Eggs (3 large) – Add structure and stability, ensuring the cheesecake sets while staying fluffy.
Sour Cream (1 cup / 240 g) – Gives extra creaminess and a subtle tang that enhances flavor.
Heavy Cream (½ cup / 120 ml) – Adds richness and helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp) – Prevents cracking by stabilizing the batter and keeping it smooth.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Lemon Zest (1 tsp) – Brightens the cheesecake with a hint of citrus.
Butter (2 tbsp, melted) – Used in the crust for richness and flavor.
Graham Crackers (1 ½ cups crushed / 150 g) – The classic cheesecake base, adding a crunchy contrast to the fluffy filling.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until it resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the Fluffy Filling
1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and lump-free.
2. Add sugar gradually and continue mixing until light and creamy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
4. Fold in sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, flour, and lemon zest. Mix gently to avoid overbeating (which can cause cracks).
3. Bake the Cheesecake
1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
2. Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan and fill with hot water halfway up the sides (this water bath ensures even baking and prevents cracks).
3. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.
4. Cool and Chill
1. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour (this prevents sudden temperature changes and cracking).
2. Remove from the oven, cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
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Why This Cheesecake is Loved
Light & Airy Texture – Unlike heavy cheesecakes, this one is delicate and almost souffle-like.
Crack-Free Finish – Thanks to the water bath and careful cooling.
Versatile Flavor – Pairs beautifully with fruit toppings, chocolate drizzles, or simply enjoyed plain.
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Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temp for a smooth batter.
Don’t Overmix: Overbeating introduces air bubbles, which can cause cracks. Mix just until combined.
Low & Slow Bake: Cheesecake prefers gentle heat—don’t rush the baking process.
Use a Water Bath: It keeps the texture moist and creamy.
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Serving Suggestions
Top with fresh berries and a drizzle of raspberry coulis for a refreshing finish.
Add a layer of salted caramel sauce and crushed pecans for a decadent twist.
Pair with a cup of espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine for an elegant ending to any meal.
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Final Thoughts
This fluffy baked cheesecake is proof that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated to be extraordinary. With its creamy yet airy texture, rich flavor, and elegant presentation, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again. Whether served plain or dressed up with toppings, it’s guaranteed to impress guests—or satisf
y your own sweet tooth. Simple, irresistible, and timeless, this cheesecake deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
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