Description
This classic Blackberry Cheesecake features a rich and creamy cream cheese filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust, baked to perfection and topped with fresh blackberries for a refreshing finish. The slow cooling method ensures a perfectly set cheesecake without cracks, making it an elegant and delicious dessert ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 eggs
Topping
- 1 pint fresh blackberries
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Make filling: In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Assemble cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Then, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door closed for 5 to 6 hours. This gentle cooling prevents cracking.
- Chill: After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake until fully chilled and ready to serve, allowing flavors to set and texture to firm.
- Add topping: Just before serving, arrange fresh blackberries on top of the cheesecake for a vibrant, flavorful garnish.
Notes
- Softening the cream cheese before mixing ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Cooling the cheesecake slowly inside the turned-off oven helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- A 9-inch springform pan is ideal for easy removal of the cheesecake.
- For extra flavor, you can macerate the blackberries with a little sugar before topping.