This rich and creamy cream cheese cake recipe is a bakery-style dessert made with simple ingredients. With its smooth texture, tangy sweetness, and buttery base, this homemade cheesecake is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion.

Classic Cream Cheese Cake Recipe

There are desserts that impress at first bite, and then there’s cream cheese cake—a timeless classic that always leaves people asking for seconds. Known for its velvety smooth texture, delicate tang, and subtle sweetness, this cake has earned its place as one of the most beloved desserts in the world.

The beauty of a cream cheese cake lies in its simplicity. With just a few staple ingredients—cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and a crust—you can create a luxurious dessert that feels both indulgent and elegant. Unlike heavy frosted cakes, cheesecake is rich yet refreshing, making it perfect for almost any occasion.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday table, birthday celebration, or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to making a flawless, creamy cheesecake right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich & Creamy – Smooth, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and cream cheese as the star.
Elegant Yet Easy – Looks bakery-style but is achievable at home.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Versatile Base – Can be topped with fruit, chocolate, or caramel.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 large eggs, room temperature
2/3 cup sour cream (for creaminess)
2/3 cup heavy cream

Optional Toppings:

Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Whipped cream
Chocolate or caramel drizzle
Crushed nuts or cookie crumbs

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overbeating.
Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour filling over the cooled crust.
Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Fill the outer pan with hot water halfway up the sides (water bath method to prevent cracks).
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
Turn off oven, crack the door open, and let cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Remove cheesecake from oven and water bath.
Run a knife around the edges to loosen from pan.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.

Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve

Before serving, top with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or drizzle with chocolate or caramel.
Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts.

Tips for the Perfect Cream Cheese Cake

Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures smooth mixing and prevents lumps.
Don’t Overbeat the Eggs – Too much air can cause cracks in the cake.
Water Bath Method – Helps maintain a creamy, crack-free surface.
Chill Overnight – Cheesecake tastes best after resting for several hours.
Warm Knife Trick – Dip knife in hot water before slicing for clean cuts.

Variations

Chocolate Cream Cheese Cake – Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the batter.
Lemon Cream Cheese Cake – Add lemon zest and juice for a citrusy twist.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Cake – Top with strawberry glaze and fresh berries.
Nutella Swirl Cheesecake – Swirl Nutella into the filling before baking.
Mini Cheesecakes – Bake in muffin tins for individual portions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with coffee or espresso for a café-style dessert.
Pair with champagne or dessert wine for a celebratory meal.
Garnish with candied lemon slices or chocolate curls for a festive touch.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before serving.
Make-Ahead: Bake one day in advance for the best flavor.

Nutrition Information (per slice, 12 servings)

Calories: ~410
Fat: 29g
Carbs: 30g
Sugar: 22g
Protein: 7g

(Values may vary depending on toppings used.)

Final Thoughts

The Classic Cream Cheese Cake is more than just dessert it’s a centerpiece for any table. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and endless topping options, it’s no wonder cheesecake is a timeless favorite.

This recipe delivers bakery-quality results at home, without complicated steps. Whether you keep it simple with a vanilla base or customize it with chocolate, fruit, or caramel, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress.

So next time you need a crowd-pleasing dessert, bake this Cream Cheese Cake smooth, creamy, and unforgettable.

Cream Cheese Cake Recipe