Five Star Cheesecake

Recipe View 5 mins Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Wrap the outside of an 8-inch springform pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil to create a watertight seal. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Generously butter the inside of the springform pan and sprinkle evenly with graham cracker crumbs, tapping out any excess. This will create a delicious crust. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar on low speed until perfectly smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 3 mins Gradually beat in the heavy cream, sour cream, and half-and-half until well combined, creating a luscious and consistent batter. (3 minutes)

Recipe View 1 mins Add the vanilla extract, infusing the batter with its aromatic essence. (1 minute)

Recipe View 4 mins Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to cracks in the finished cheesecake. (4 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. (2 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan, reaching about halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath. (5 minutes)

Recipe View 1 hrs 15 mins Gently transfer the entire setup to the preheated oven. Bake for 75 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. (75 minutes)

Recipe View 1 hrs Turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracking. (60 minutes)

Recipe View 30 mins Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely at room temperature. (30 minutes)

Recipe View 4 hrs Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to fully set. (240 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Before serving, carefully run a thin knife around the edge of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake. Release the sides of the pan and gently transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate. (5 minutes)