Classic Cheesecake with Berry Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup melted butter

1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

500g cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs

1 cup sour cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Berry Sauce:

2 cups mixed berries (raspberries, blackberries, etc.)

1/2 cup sugar

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water

For Garnish:

Whipped cream

Fresh berries

—

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until well combined.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

Reduce oven temperature to 160°C (325°F).

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.

Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice until fully incorporated.

Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.

3. Bake:

Place the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking.

Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is slightly jiggly but set.

Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool gradually for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. Prepare the Berry Sauce:

In a saucepan, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the berries soften.

Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.

5. Assemble and Serve:

Top the cheesecake with the berry sauce and garnish with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!