Description
This Vanilla Bean Cheesecake features a luscious, creamy filling infused with fragrant vanilla bean and a buttery vanilla wafer crust that adds a delightful crunch. Perfectly baked to achieve a smooth, rich texture with a slight jiggle in the center, this classic American dessert is an indulgent treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups vanilla wafer cookie crumbs (about 50 wafers)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste or seeds scraped from 1 vanilla bean
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix the vanilla wafer crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Blend in the sour cream, vanilla bean paste, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to build layers of flavor. Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until each is incorporated to avoid overmixing.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool the cheesecake: After baking, turn off the oven and leave the oven door slightly ajar. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then, remove it and allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set completely and develop flavors. Serve chilled, optionally topped with fresh whipped cream or macerated berries for extra flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, top the cheesecake with fresh whipped cream or macerated berries.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smoother, creamier filling.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding eggs to maintain a light texture and prevent cracks.
