Description
Celebrate in style with this Birthday Cheesecake, a rich and creamy cheesecake topped with colorful sprinkles to make any occasion extra special. This recipe features a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth vanilla cheesecake filling, and a festive sprinkle topping.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 crackers)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles (optional, folded into the batter)
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream (optional)
- More rainbow sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to pack it tightly.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until combined after each addition. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
- If using sprinkles, fold them in gently to avoid the colors bleeding into the batter.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath (this helps prevent cracks).
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
4. Cool the Cheesecake:
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and water bath, then let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
5. Decorate and Serve:
- Before serving, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
- Top with whipped cream and a generous sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Prevent Cracks: Use the water bath method and avoid overmixing the batter to keep your cheesecake smooth and crack-free.
- Make Ahead: Cheesecake tastes better the next day, so make it in advance for the best flavor.
- Decorate Creatively: Add candles, edible glitter, or candy toppings for an even more festive presentation.