Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cheesecake Cooking Guide
- Step 1: Prepare the Crust - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, pulse the chocolate wafer cookies until they resemble fine crumbs. In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs with the melted butter, 1/4 cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Step 2: Form the Crust - Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- Step 3: Make the Filling - In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 1 cup of sugar and the finely grated lemon zest, mixing until well incorporated.
- Step 4: Add the Eggs - Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Step 5: Prepare the Sour Cream Topping - In another bowl, mix the sour cream, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 6: Combine and Bake - Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust, smoothing it out evenly. Add dollops of the sour cream mixture on top and gently swirl it with a knife. Bake for 50-60 minutes.
- Step 7: Cool and Chill - Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about an hour. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Notes
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- For a different flavor, try using graham crackers instead of chocolate wafers.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- Don't rush the cooling process to prevent cracks.
