Velvety Baked Cheesecake with Buttery Crumb Topping: A Dessert to Remember

Introduction:

Indulge in the rich and velvety goodness of this Baked Cheesecake with Buttery Crumb Topping. Featuring a creamy center, a golden crumbly crust, and a sweet topping, this cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for celebrations or simple family gatherings. With its classic flavor and elegant appearance, it’s sure to become a go-to dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuit crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

Equipment:

• 9-inch springform pan
• Electric or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until it resembles damp sand.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s tightly packed.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until incorporated.
3. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour until smooth, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing it evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the flour and brown sugar.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and use a fork or pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cheesecake filling.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
2. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
3. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracks.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
2. Remove from the springform pan, slice, and serve chilled.

Tips for Success:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened cream cheese and room-temperature eggs make for a silky-smooth batter.
• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can introduce too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake.
• Add a Garnish: Serve with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Perfect Texture: The creamy cheesecake contrasts beautifully with the buttery crust and crumb topping.
2. Impressive Yet Simple: Elegant enough for special occasions, easy enough for everyday baking.
3. Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or a fruit compote for a personal twist.

Conclusion:

This Velvety Baked Cheesecake with Buttery Crumb Topping is a decadent dessert that everyone will love. With its rich flavor, creamy texture, and golden crumb topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and make every bite a delicious celebration!