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Prep Time: 30 mins | Cook Time: 1 hour | Chill Time: 4+ hours
Servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 sheets)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 pinch salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 4 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened (full-fat for best texture)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for stability)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

For the Blueberry Topping:

  • 2 cups fresh blueberries (divided)
  • ¼ cup water
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tsp water (slurry)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  • Mix crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Press firmly into the pan’s base and 1 inch up the sides.
  • Bake for 10 minutes, then cool. Wrap the pan in foil to prevent leaks (for water bath).

2. Make the Filling:

  • Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, vanilla, and lemon zest.
  • Mix in eggs one at a time, then fold in flour until just combined.
  • Pour over crust. Smooth the top.

3. Bake (Water Bath Method for No Cracks!):

  • Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water halfway up the sides.
  • Bake for 50-60 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly.
  • Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cool 1 hour inside to prevent sinking.

4. Blueberry Topping:

  • Simmer 1 cup blueberries, water, sugar, and lemon juice for 5 minutes.
  • Add cornstarch slurry, stir until thickened (1-2 minutes). Cool slightly, then fold in remaining 1 cup fresh blueberries.
  • Spread over chilled cheesecake.

5. Chill & Serve:

  • Refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight best). Run a knife around the edges before releasing the springform.

Tips for Success:

✅ Room-temperature ingredients prevent lumps.
✅ Water bath ensures even baking and no cracks.
✅ Cool gradually to avoid sinking.

Serve cold with extra fresh berries! 🍰💙