Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the sugar and continue to beat until well combined. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can introduce air bubbles that may cause cracks during baking.
Incorporate Sour Cream and Lemon Juice: Gently fold in the sour cream and lemon juice (if using) until just combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Pour the Filling into the Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The filling will continue to firm up as it cools.
Cool and Chill: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set completely.
Serve: Slice the chilled cheesecake pie and serve it plain or topped with your favorite toppings such as whipped cream, fresh berries, chocolate sauce, or caramel.
Why You’ll Love Cheesecake Pie
Creamy and Indulgent: The rich, creamy texture of the filling combined with the crunchy graham cracker crust makes for a decadent dessert experience.
Easy to Make: Unlike traditional cheesecakes that require a water bath and precise baking times, this pie is straightforward and forgiving.
Versatile: You can customize it with various toppings or mix-ins, like chocolate chips, fruit, or flavored extracts, to suit your taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, birthday celebration, or a simple family dinner, this cheesecake pie fits the bill perfectly.
Perfect Pairings
Pair your Cheesecake Pie with:
Fresh Fruit: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich pie.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and complements the creaminess of the cheesecake.
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce takes this dessert to the next level.
Tips for Success
Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth filling without lumps.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks in the pie.
Chill Thoroughly: Allow the pie to chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. This not only helps the flavors develop but also ensures the filling sets properly.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftover cheesecake pie in the fridge for up to 5 days, covered tightly to prevent it from absorbing odors.
Freezer: You can freeze cheesecake pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Pie is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering all the creamy goodness of cheesecake in a simple pie form. With its buttery graham cracker crust and luscious filling, this pie is sure to please any crowd. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to simple family dinners, this Cheesecake Pie is a dessert that promises to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try this recipe today, and indulge in a slice of heaven!
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