Simple recipes are often the best ones - and that's why so many people love cheesecakes!
While there are some recipes that need no baking, classic cheesecake recipes still require you using an oven.
Here are some tips on how to bake a perfect cheesecake in your oven.
Ingredients
Gather cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and flavorings (like vanilla extract). Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
Crust
If you want a crust, mix crushed cookies or graham crackers with melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of your pan to make the crust.
Preheat
Preheat your oven to the temperature the recipe suggests, usually around 325°F.
Mix Carefully
In a big bowl, mix the cream cheese until it's soft and creamy. Add sugar, eggs, and any flavorings, and gently mix everything.
Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks in your cheesecake.
Pan Preparation
Use a springform pan if you have one; it's the best for cheesecakes. Line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Pour and Bake
Pour the cheesecake mixture onto your crust or directly into the pan. Smooth the top.
Water Bath (optional)
You can place your cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with hot water while baking. This helps prevent cracking.
Bake Slowly
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for the time stated in your recipe. It's ready when the edges are set, but the center is still slightly jiggly.
Cool Slowly
Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open. Let your cheesecake cool slowly for an hour or so. Then, move it to the fridge and chill for several hours or overnight.
Toppings
Add your favorite toppings before serving, like fruit, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream.
