The Best Technique for Classic Cheesecake | Tips for a Light and Creamy Recipe | Kitchen Conundrums

cream cheese

🥗Healthier: ricotta cheese

💰Cheaper: cottage cheese

Ricotta offers a lighter texture while cottage cheese is more economical.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt provides similar tanginess with fewer calories.

heavy cream

🥗Healthier: coconut cream

💰Cheaper: whipping cream

Coconut cream is dairy-free while whipping cream is often less expensive.

sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Stevia is a zero-calorie alternative while brown sugar is often cheaper.

Crumble 15 graham crackers in a food processor.

Add 1/3 cup dark brown sugar, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, and 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt to the processor.

Pulse until coarse crumbs form.

Add 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter and pulse until combined.

Press the crumb mixture into the base and sides of a 9-inch springform pan.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake the crust for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

In a stand mixer, add 2.5 pounds of room temperature cream cheese and mix for 2-3 minutes until creamy.

Gradually add 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar while mixing for another 2-3 minutes.

Add 3/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt and mix.

Add 5 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice and mix until combined.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens