Full-fat cream cheese at room temperature is non-negotiable; cold cheese leaves lumps you cannot beat out. Bake it low in a water bath and stop while the center still jiggles, then let it set slowly so the top does not crack.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep30 min
Cook75 min
Makes12 servings
CuisineAmerican
Cost$$
Vegetarian
Contains dairy · eggs · gluten
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for12servings
Cream cheese
Full-fat blocks, fully softened, are the whole body of the cake.
Rich enough that Mom might raise an eyebrow. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Air fryerSheet pan
The Method
CrustMix graham crumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp sugar, press into a springform pan, and bake at 350F for 10 minutes.
BatterBeat softened cream cheese smooth, add sugar, then sour cream and eggs on low just until combined; do not overbeat.
Water bathWrap the pan in foil, set in a roasting pan, and pour hot water halfway up the sides.
BakeBake at 325F for 65-75 minutes until the outer 2 inches are set but the center still jiggles; cool in the turned-off oven with the door cracked, then chill overnight.
Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.
Can you freeze Cheesecake? — Not ideal
Not really — the cream, custard, or emulsion turns grainy or splits once thawed. This one is best kept fresh in the fridge.
Can you make Cheesecake ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it needs the chill time to set, so making it ahead is the whole point.
Is Cheesecake gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
Is Cheesecake vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy and egg. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.
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