Fluffy Vanilla Cream Cheesecake

Fluffy Vanilla Cream Cheesecake

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free cookie crumbs)
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar or coconut sugar
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: ½ tsp ground ginger or lemon zest for flavor

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• ¾ cup (180 ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream

For the Whipped Cream Layer:

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
• 3 tbsp powdered sugar (or natural sweetener)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish (optional):

• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Lemon zest, fruit slices, or berries
• A drizzle of honey or melted white chocolate

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and any flavor additions (like ginger or lemon zest).
3. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition (don’t overbeat).
4. Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until just blended and smooth.
5. Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan.
2. Pour hot water into the outer pan (about halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan) for a water bath—this prevents cracks.
3. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly.
4. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
5. Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

4. Whip the Cream Topping

1. Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
3. Dust with powdered sugar and decorate with zest, fruit, or any topping you like.

Optional Wellness Twists

• Add 1 tsp grated fresh ginger or 1 tbsp lemon zest for an anti-inflammatory boost.
• Use almond flour crust for a gluten-free option.
• Swap sugar for maple syrup or coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness.

Serving Tips

• Serve chilled for a classic creamy texture.
• For a unique twist, warm slightly before serving for a custard-like feel.
• Pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or fresh berries.