Heavenly Cheesecake Recipe: A Creamy Delight
Imagine a luscious pie made with creamy cream cheese and tangy sour cream, on top of a buttery, crumbly graham cracker crust. The Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake Recipe is nothing short of divinely delicious. Hailing from the iconic Blackstone hotel in Chicago, this cheesecake recipe has become a legend worth sharing.
I know you may be thinking, “Oh great, another boring cheesecake recipe!” But trust me, this isn’t your average cheesecake recipe. With its smooth texture and rich flavor, each bite will transport your taste buds to pure heaven.
The best part? You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your own home to experience it. By following some simple steps, you can whip up this culinary masterpiece in no time.
So go ahead and indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with the famous Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake Recipe – I guarantee you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture this: a creamy, perfectly sweetened cheesecake that just melts in your mouth with a crunchy graham cracker crust. Are you salivating yet?
Well, get ready for the ultimate indulgence with this Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake recipe. This recipe is an absolute showstopper that will have everyone who tastes it begging for more. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you won’t go back to any other cheesecake recipe.
Firstly, the combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and vanilla extract makes this cheesecake unbelievably smooth and delicious. And let’s not forget about the sugar – it’s just enough to balance out the tartness of the cream cheese without being overpowering.
Secondly, the graham cracker crust brings a salty-sweet crunch that complements the silkiness of the cheesecake filling perfectly. It’s simple enough to make but adds an unforgettable taste and texture to the final product.
Thirdly, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can switch it up by using different toppings such as fresh fruit or frozen raspberries and lemon juice. The possibilities are endless!
Finally, this Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake recipe pays homage to one of Chicago’s finest hotels – it’s no surprise that such a decadent dessert would come from there! Impress your guests with a slice (or two) of history and treat them to something truly special.
In conclusion, you’ll love this recipe because it’s rich, creamy, versatile and pays tribute to a classic Chicago landmark. Try it out for yourself and see why it’s the ultimate dessert indulgence!
Ingredient List
Here’s what you will need to recreate the iconic Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake recipe:
Crust
- 10 graham crackers
- 5 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (taste)
Filling
- 2 packages (10 ounces each) of softened cream cheese
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Topping
- Frozen raspberries (or any fruit of your choice)
For the crust, you can also use mini Oreo cookies or cherry graham crackers for a twist on the traditional graham cracker crust. You can also make this a low-carb Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake recipe by using sugar substitutes and almond flour for the crust.
These ingredients are easily accessible in most grocery stores, and there is no need for any specialty ingredients. Now that we have our ingredients ready let’s dive into preparing the cheesecake!
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Preparing the Crust
Ingredients:
- 10 graham crackers
- 5 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (or to taste)
-
Crush 10 graham crackers into fine crumbs; you can use a food processor or put them in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, 5 tablespoons of softened butter, and 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar.
- Mix well until it resembles wet sand.
Tip: You can also use cherry or mini Oreo cookies for the crust if you wish.
- Pro Tip: Don’t press the crust too hard into the bottom of your pan; it will be easier to cut and serve if you leave it a bit crumbly.
Step 2: Preparing the Filling
Ingredients:
- 32 ounces of cream cheese (four 8 ounces packages), softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3 eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
-
In a mixing bowl, beat 32 ounces (four packages) of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of white sugar together until creamy.
- Beat in 3 eggs, one at a time, until well combined.
- Add 1/4 cup of room temperature sour cream, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
Tip: Use full-fat cream cheese for better texture.
- Pro Tip: Be careful not to overmix the filling as it can cause cracks in your cheesecake.
Step 3: Baking the Cheesecake
- Preheat your oven to 325°F /160°C degrees.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
- Bake for approximately an hour or until set and slightly golden brown on top.
Tip: If your cheesecake starts browning too quickly, cover it with aluminium foil to prevent the top from burning.
- Once done, turn off heat and leave the cheesecake in the oven for another hour to cool down slowly.
Step 4: Topping Your Cheesecake
Optional ingredients for topping:
- Fresh or frozen raspberries (or other fruit of your choice)
-
Powdered sugar
-
Once cooled, add toppings like fresh raspberries or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
And there you have it! The perfect Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake recipe that will impress anyone at any occasion!
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to cheesecakes, the sky is the limit when it comes to variations and substitutions. Here are some ideas to make this Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake your own.
– Crust: Instead of using graham crackers, try using Oreo cookies or Nilla wafers for a twist.
– Toppings: The recipe calls for frozen raspberries on top, but you can swap them for fresh berries or switch it up entirely with a caramel or chocolate glaze.
– Low carb option: For a low carb version, you can substitute the graham crackers with almond flour or coconut flour and use a sugar substitute instead of white sugar.
– Flavorings: If you’re feeling adventurous, mix up the flavors by adding in some Grand Marnier, maple bourbon, or even amaretto.
– Mini Cheesecakes: Instead of making one large cheesecake, you can make mini cheesecakes by using a muffin tin with liners. This is great for parties or anytime you want individual servings.
– Cheesecake Bars: Instead of a traditional round shape, you can turn this recipe into bars by baking it in a rectangular baking pan. This is great for potlucks or larger gatherings.
No matter how you decide to customize this Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake recipe, the end result will be delicious and unique. So go ahead and get creative!
Serving and Pairing
Once your Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake is baked to perfection and has had time to chill in the fridge, it’s time to serve and enjoy! This indulgent dessert is perfect for serving at a dinner party as it serves a crowd and can be made ahead of time.
To serve, remove the cheesecake from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature. This will bring out its full flavors and allow for a smoother texture. You can then slice it into individual servings, making sure to dip your knife in warm water before each cut for clean slices.
Pair this decadent dessert with a sweet fortified wine such as port or sherry, or even a dessert-style wine like a late harvest Riesling. These wines have enough sweetness to complement the rich flavors of the cheesecake without overpowering them.
If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try pairing the cheesecake with a fresh cup of coffee or tea. Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake also pairs well with tart frozen raspberries or whipped cream for some extra tanginess and creaminess.
So whether you’re enjoying a slice for an indulgent weekend treat or serving up a whole cake at your next gathering, Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
In my opinion, the best part about this exquisite Blackstone Hotel cheesecake recipe is that making it ahead of time is definitely an option. This means you can whip up a batch for your guests or family a day or two in advance, leaving you plenty of time to prepare other dishes for your special occasion. When you’ve already got enough cooking to do, who wouldn’t love a dessert that’s easy and stress-free?
When it comes to storage, I recommend keeping any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap before moving it to the fridge. This will keep it as fresh as possible for up to 5 days.
Wondering how to reheat your leftover cheesecake? The key is to NOT use your microwave! Rather, allow your delicious dessert to come to room temperature before slicing and serving. If you are looking for more of a warm dessert, place your slices on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10-12 minutes before serving.
This recipe transforms wonderfully from traditional vanilla cheesecake into countless variations like chocolate cheesecake, amaretto cheesecake, and more. In addition, this recipe also lends itself well to being made into mini cheesecakes or even as bite-sized cheesecake squares that are perfect for parties or picnics!
Trust me when I say that once you’ve mastered this Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake Recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Tips for Perfect Results
Making a cheesecake can be a daunting task, but with these tips, you can make sure that it turns out perfect every time. Here are some tips to help you avoid any pitfalls and ensure your Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake comes out delicious and flavorful.
Firstly, make sure that all of your ingredients are at room temperature before using them. This is especially important for cream cheese and eggs as they tend to blend better at room temperature. If you forget to take them out beforehand, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or let them sit on the counter for a few minutes before using.
Another tip that may seem obvious but is worth emphasizing is to measure your ingredients accurately. Cheesecake is a delicate balance of flavors, and even a slight deviation from the recipe can affect the final outcome. Use measuring cups and spoons instead of estimating, and double-check all measurements before adding the ingredients.
When mixing the filling, be sure not to over-beat it. Over-beating incorporates too much air into the mixture, which will cause the cheesecake to puff up and then deflate once it cools. Mix it until all ingredients are well combined, but stop once that’s achieved.
For perfect creamy smoothness in your cheesecake filling, use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar. Powdered sugar is finer than white sugar; therefore, it dissolves faster which will make it easier to mix with other ingredients to have a smoother texture.
Lastly, bake your cheesecake low and slow. Slow baking ensures even heat distribution throughout the cake without creating hot spots that may lead to cracks. A water bath also helps to control temperature while baking; this process involves placing the cheesecake pan in larger roasting pans that have hot water.
Following these tips allows you to create not just an amazing cheesecake but also one that’s original and rich with flavor. You’re not only guaranteed perect results but also delighted guests asking for more!
FAQ
As we head towards the end of this recipe article, I know there may be some lingering questions. To assist you better, I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions with their respective answers. So, before you start baking your own Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake, take a look at these FAQs – you may find the answer to some doubts that have been pestering you!
What does an extra egg do to cheesecake?
Eggs are a crucial ingredient in creating creamy and decadent custards and cheesecakes. However, it’s important to use the right amount as an excess can result in an unsightly “cheesecake canyon” forming on the surface. This occurrence can be avoided by using the precise amount of eggs in the recipe.
Why is NY style cheesecake?
The genesis of the NY styled cheesecake can be traced back to Reuben’s encounter with a cheese pie at a party. Intrigued by the dish, he decided to experiment with it and eventually created the iconic dessert we know today as the NY Cheesecake.
What is New York cheesecake made of?
When it comes to cheesecake, nothing beats the famously indulgent New York style. This type of cheesecake is characterized by its luxurious, velvety texture that’s both dense and tall with a flat top, which in my opinion, is the perfect way to enjoy it. The recipe typically includes a blend of cream cheese, eggs, rich heavy cream, or sour cream to provide that creamy consistency that New York cheesecake is known for. Occasionally, a hint of lemon might be added to give it a bright and refreshing flavor. Overall, New York cheesecake is a decadent dessert that truly satisfies the sweet tooth.
How to make a James Martin cheesecake?
For this recipe, you will need a quarter of a ginger loaf cake, sliced into thin pieces, around 60g in total. Additional ingredients include 200g of full-fat cream cheese, 200ml of crème fraiche, 300ml of whipped double cream, 50g of caster sugar, and a teaspoon of vanilla bean paste. To serve the dish, you will also need 200g of raspberries (blitzed), a selection of berries, and lemon verbena sprigs. Preheat your oven to 100C in preparation.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a luxurious dessert that will impress your guests or just satisfy your sweet tooth, the Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake recipe is the way to go. Its creamy texture and perfect balance of sweetness make it a classic that has been enjoyed in hotels and restaurants for decades.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe can be made by anyone with a passion for baking. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with different variations such as adding fresh fruit toppings or using different flavored graham crackers for the crust.
Make sure to follow the tips and recommendations provided in this article to achieve the best results possible. And don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us, so we can see your wonderful creations!
In the end, the Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake recipe is not only a dessert but a piece of history from Chicago’s famous hotel. So why not indulge in something truly special? Treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a slice of this New York-style cheesecake and experience culinary delight like never before.
Blackstone Hotel Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients
Crust
- 10 graham crackers
- 5 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (or to taste)
Cake
- 2 (10 ounce) packages softened cream cheese (you can use light)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- almond extract
Topping
- 1 (1 pint) container sour cream (can use light)
- white sugar
- almond extract
Fruit Topping
- frozen raspberries
- lemon juice
- sugar
Instructions
- Crust: Combine crushed graham crackers and 5 tablespoons of butter until mixed to a flaky consistency; Add powdered sugar, just to sweeten the crust slightly Press into the bottom of a spring form pan.
- You may bake the crust at this point (optional) 350 deg for 5 minutes; I like it better if you don’t bake it.
- Cake: Mix cream cheese, sugar, eggs.
- Add vanilla and if desired 3-5 drops (or so) of Almond extract.
- Mix again till smooth and creamy.
- Bake 20 minutes at 350 degrees.
- Topping: Mix sour cream with white sugar to taste and again a few drops of almond extract to taste.
- Top the cooked and cooled (slightly) cheesecake with the spread (not all the way to the edge).
- Bake 350 degrees for 5 minutes; should be done but not brown.
- Optional fruit topping: 1/2 package frozen raspberries in a saucepan and cover with water and some lemon juice.
- Bring to a boil and add sugar to sweeten (as much or little as you want) and corn starch to the desired consistency and return to a boil, STIRING constantly.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
Steven is a chef by heritage, so it’s no wonder why baking is such a big part of who he is. To share his passion for all things sweet, he created cookiesncrepes.com. It’s the perfect platform to indulge in delicious treats, all with a sprinkle of his signature flare.