Step-by-Step: How to Make Cream Cheese Cake
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C)
Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom and sides tightly with double-layer aluminum foil — prevents water bath leaks
Pro Tip: Use a slow cooker liner for extra protection.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a bowl, mix:
Graham cracker crumbs
Sugar
Melted butter
Press firmly into the bottom (and slightly up the sides) of the pan
Bake 10 minutes, then cool while making filling
Chill 5 mins — helps it hold shape.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth
Add sugar — beat until fluffy
Mix in sour cream and vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended
Scrape the bowl — get every bit of creaminess
Don’t overmix — can cause cracks.
Step 4: Bake with a Water Bath
Pour batter over the cooled crust
Place springform pan in a larger roasting pan
Fill roasting pan with hot water (1 inch deep) — this is the water bath
Bake 55–65 minutes, until edges are set but center jiggles slightly
Why water bath? Prevents cracks and ensures even baking.
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