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Joy of Cooking Cheesecake Recipe

Joy of Cooking Cheesecake Recipe

Cheesecake is a beloved dessert, and the Joy of Cooking’s recipe is a timeless classic that you can easily master at home.

I fell in love with its creamy texture and subtle sweetness the first time I made it.

A key trick is using a small pan with hot water on the lower rack to prevent cracks while baking.

Mixing the cornstarch, sugar, lime juice, and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy gives this cheesecake its delightful consistency.

Don’t forget to let it cool before topping it with the delicious sour cream mixture for the best results.

There’s nothing more satisfying than slicing into a homemade cheesecake and sharing it with friends and family!

How to Make Joy of Cooking Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
  • 1/3 cup Butter (melted)
  • 3 packages Cream Cheese (8 oz. each, softened)
  • 1 cup Sugar
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
  • 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 tsp Lemon Juice
  • Pinch of Salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius).

Grease a 9-inch springform pan.

Step 2:

Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl.

Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Step 3:

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.

Add sugar, cornstarch, and salt, beating on low speed until each ingredient is incorporated.

Step 4:

Add sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.

Beat until the mixture is completely smooth and lump-free.

Pour the filling over the chilled crust.

Step 5:

Place a small pan half-filled with hot water on the lower rack of your oven to create a humid environment and prevent cracking.

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-70 minutes.

Step 6:

Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about an hour.

Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

mixing joy of cooking cheesecake cream

Preventing Cracks

Ensure you don’t overmix the batter to incorporate less air, which often leads to cracks.

Bake the cheesecake in a humid oven by placing a pan of water on the lower rack.

Perfect Slice

For clean slices, use a hot knife.

Dip your knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice, cleaning the knife between each cut.

Flavor Boost

For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla.

This gives the cheesecake a unique, nutty undertone that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture.

Chilling Matters

Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly.

This helps to achieve the best texture and firm up the cheesecake properly.

Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible.

Topping Choices

While the sour cream topping is traditional, feel free to get creative with fruit toppings or a light dusting of cocoa powder.

What to Serve with Joy of Cooking Cheesecake Recipe

Fresh Berry Compote

A fresh berry compote can add a burst of color and tartness that beautifully balances the richness of cheesecake.

You can make it by simmering a mix of your favorite berries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice.

This easy topping is both refreshing and visually appealing.

Pistachio Ice Cream

Pistachio ice cream is a unique side that pairs well with the creamy texture of the cheesecake.

The nuttiness and slight saltiness of the ice cream offer a wonderful contrast.

Plus, the combination of cold ice cream and smooth cheesecake is divine.

Sweet Potato Mash

For something out of the ordinary, consider serving a sweet potato mash with your cheesecake.

The natural sweetness and earthy flavors of sweet potatoes make an unexpected but delightful match.

You can add a touch of maple syrup and cinnamon for extra flavor.

Caramelized Pineapple Slices

Caramelized pineapple slices add a tropical twist to your dessert spread.

Simply sauté pineapple slices with a bit of sugar and butter until golden brown.

The luscious pineapple pairs excellently with the creamy cheesecake.

Espresso

A hot cup of espresso is a classic choice that complements the dense texture and rich flavors of cheesecake.

The bitterness of the coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness, creating a balanced taste experience.

A little shot of espresso can make each bite of cheesecake even more enjoyable.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers for a spicy twist on the crust!

You can swap out the traditional cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter texture.

Alternative Sweeteners

Replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup.

You can also try using agave syrup for a lower glycemic index.

Flour Options

Use almond flour for a gluten-free crust.

Coconut flour works too, but be cautious as it absorbs more moisture.

Flavor Boosters

Add a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest to the batter for a citrusy kick.

For a rich and deep flavor, include a splash of bourbon or rum.

Toppings

Top with fresh fruit like berries or mango slices.

A drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup can make the cheesecake extra indulgent.

Your cheesecakes can feature a variety of nuts in the crust, adding a unique crunch.

Spice Variations

Replace cinnamon with cardamom for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

You can experiment with nutmeg or even pumpkin spice to match seasonal themes.

Feel free to mix and match these substitutions.

How to Store Leftover Cheesecake

You did it! You made the Joy of Cooking Cheesecake and now you have some leftovers to store.

Don’t worry, I’ll help you keep your cheesecake fresh and delicious.

Refrigeration

First, move your cheesecake to the fridge within two hours of it cooling.

This will prevent bacteria from growing.

Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.

The cheesecake will stay fresh in the fridge for up to five days.

Freezing

If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it!

Wrap the cheesecake in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.

Label the package with the date.

Your cheesecake can be frozen for up to three months without losing much of its taste.

Separation

Separate any fruit toppings from the cheesecake before storing.

The toppings can be stored in a different container to keep both fresh.

This way, the cheesecake won’t become soggy.

I hope these tips help you enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first slice!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Inconsistent Crust Texture

One major cheesecake mistake is not crushing the graham crackers enough for the crust.

You want a fine texture, so use a food processor to break down the crackers as much as possible.

Too large chunks can make the crust crumble and fall apart when you slice the cheesecake.

Overmixing the Batter

Overmixing your cheesecake batter can lead to a super soft cheesecake that won’t hold its shape.

Only mix until the ingredients are just combined, and avoid using a blender or food processor for mixing.

Stick to a hand mixer or a stand mixer to achieve the best results.

Opening the Oven Door

It can be tempting to check on your cheesecake while it’s baking, but opening the oven door can be a big mistake.

When you open the oven, you let out hot, steamy air that’s crucial for even baking.

This can cause the cheesecake to fall in the middle or bake unevenly, so resist the urge to peek!

joy of cooking cheesecake recipe

Joy of Cooking Cheesecake Recipe

Cheesecake is a beloved dessert, and the Joy of Cooking's recipe is a timeless classic that you can easily master at home.
A key trick is using a small pan with hot water on the lower rack to prevent cracks while baking.
Mixing the cornstarch, sugar, lime juice, and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy gives this cheesecake its delightful consistency.
Don't forget to let it cool before topping it with the delicious sour cream mixture for the best results.
There's nothing more satisfying than slicing into a homemade cheesecake and sharing it with friends and family!
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 27 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
  • 1/3 cup Butter melted
  • 3 packages Cream Cheese 8 oz. each, softened
  • 1 cup Sugar
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
  • 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 tsp Lemon Juice
  • Pinch of Salt

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius).
  • Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  • Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl.
  • Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  • Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
  • Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.
  • Add sugar, cornstarch, and salt, beating on low speed until each ingredient is incorporated.
  • Add sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
  • Beat until the mixture is completely smooth and lump-free.
  • Pour the filling over the chilled crust.
  • Place a small pan half-filled with hot water on the lower rack of your oven to create a humid environment and prevent cracking.
  • Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-70 minutes.
  • Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about an hour.
  • Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

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