Cheesecake Factory 30th Anniversary Cheesecake
The Cheesecake Factory’s 30th Anniversary Cheesecake is a classic cheesecake that has been around for three decades. It is made with cream cheese, sugar, eggs, sour cream, and a splash of vanilla extract. The cheesecake is then topped off with a decadent layer of chocolate ganache and finished with a crunchy brown sugar and graham cracker crust. This cheesecake is perfect for any occasion and can be served with a variety of accompaniments, such as fresh fruit, ice cream, or whipped cream.
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Mixer
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 8 oz packages of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix together the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese and sugar until light and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix until incorporated.
- Add the sour cream and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Pour the batter into the springform pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Heat the chocolate chips and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, until melted and smooth.
- Spread the melted chocolate over the top of the cooled cheesecake.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh fruit or ice cream
- Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts
- Serve with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce
Variation Ideas
- Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips
- Toss in some chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or dried fruits to the cheesecake batter
- Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the crust mixture for a chocolate crust
- Swap out the graham crackers for chocolate cookies for a double chocolate crust
- Mix in some peanut butter or Nutella to the ganache
- Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for butterscotch chips
Substitutions
- Cream cheese: use vegan cream cheese or low-fat cream cheese
- Butter: use vegan butter or margarine
- Sour cream: use vegan sour cream or plain yogurt
- Graham cracker crumbs: use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs
Storage
- Room temperature: store covered for up to 2 days
- Refrigerator: store covered for up to 4 days
- Freezer: store in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months
Tips
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
- Eggs should be at room temperature before incorporating.
- Mix the ingredients on low speed to avoid over-mixing.
- Let the cheesecake cool completely before adding the ganache.
Notes
- This cheesecake can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness.
- For a lighter version, substitute the cream cheese with low-fat cream cheese.
- Swap out the graham cracker crumbs for crushed digestive biscuits for a crunchy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Is this cheesecake suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, this cheesecake is suitable for vegetarians. To make it vegan-friendly, use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan butter, and vegan sour cream. - Q: Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make this cheesecake gluten-free by substituting the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers. - Q: How long will this cheesecake last?
A: This cheesecake will last up to 2 days at room temperature, 4 days in the refrigerator, and up to 2 months in the freezer. - Q: What are some side dishes that can be served with this cheesecake?
A: This cheesecake can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as fresh fruit, ice cream, or whipped cream.