Cherry Cheesecake
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
For the Topping:
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Whipped cream (for decoration)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for an hour.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Add the Topping: Spread the cherry pie filling on top of the cheesecake. Decorate with whipped cream as desired.
