Basic Loaf Pan Cheesecake Recipe

Servings: 4-6
Pan Size: 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 cup (100g) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuit crumbs)
2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

12 oz (340g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
1 large egg
¼ cup (60ml) sour cream or heavy cream

For the Topping (Optional):
½ cup (120ml) sour cream
1 tbsp (12g) powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
✅Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the lined loaf pan. Use a spoon or the bottom of a glass to pack it firmly.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth (about 1 minute).
2. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Beat until combined.
3. Add egg and mix on low speed until just incorporated (do not overmix).
4. Add sour cream (or heavy cream) and mix until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
2. Place the loaf pan inside a larger baking dish. Fill the larger dish with hot water (about 1 inch deep) to create a water bath (this prevents cracks).
3. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
4. Turn off the oven, slightly crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes.
5. Transfer to a wire rack and cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).

Step 4: Make the Topping (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, mix sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Spread over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Step 5: Serve

Lift the cheesecake out of the loaf pan using the parchment paper.

Slice and enjoy!