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Golden French Cheesecake slice with fresh berries and caramel drizzle on a marble slab

French Cheesecake Recipe

Carla
Creamy, velvety, and foolproof! This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Course baking, Dessert
Cuisine European, French
Servings 12 servings
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ⅓ cup melted butter
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Filling:

  • 24 oz 3 blocks full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven: 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  • Make Crust: Mix crumbs, butter, and sugar. Press into pan. Bake 10 minutes. Cool.
  • Beat Filling: Whip cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and zest.
  • Bake: Pour filling over crust. Place pan in a water bath. Bake 45–50 minutes until edges are set (center jiggles slightly).
  • Cool: Turn off oven, crack door, and let cool inside for 1 hour. Chill 4+ hours.

Notes

No-Bake Option: Skip baking; chill filling 6+ hours.
Toppings: Fresh berries, caramel, or chocolate ganache.
Storage: Refrigerate 5 days or freeze slices 2 months.
Nutrition (per serving): 380 kcal | Carbs 28g | Protein 6g | Fat 27g

Chef’s Tips

  • For crack-free results, avoid overmixing and use a water bath.
  • Gluten-free? Swap graham crackers for gluten-free cookies.
Keyword Easy cheesecake recipe Creamy cheesecake No-bake cheesecake Classic French dessert