Description
This classic Blackberry Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth and creamy cream cheese filling, and a fresh blackberry topping. Baked to perfection and chilled to set, it offers a decadent dessert that balances sweetness and tartness in every bite.
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 the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare the 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 a firm crust base.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to prevent cracking.
- Cool gradually: Turn off the oven and close the door. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 5 to 6 hours to prevent cracks and allow it to set properly.
- Chill: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake until fully chilled and firm, ideally for several hours or overnight.
- Add topping and serve: Just before serving, top the cheesecake with fresh blackberries to add a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Using a springform pan helps in easily removing the cheesecake without damaging its shape.
- For a smoother crust, you can pulse the graham crackers in a food processor until finely ground.
- Be sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Gradual cooling inside the oven helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking on the surface.
- Chilling the cheesecake for several hours improves texture and flavor.
- Fresh blackberries on top enhance both the taste and presentation.