Cheesecake

Step 1

Preheat oven to 325 degrees

Step 2

To make crust, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until moistened.

Step 3

Pour the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan (3 inches tall). Press the crumbs into the bottom and 1 inch up the sides of the pan.

Step 4

Bake for about 10 minutes. Remove and cool to room temperature.

Step 5

To make the cheesecake filling, cream the sugar, cream cheese and flour with an electric mixer on medium until light and fluffy.

Step 6

On medium low, add eggs one at a time, mixing well with each addition. On low, add sour cream, lemon juice and vanilla just until combined.

Step 7

Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes at 325.

Step 8

Make sure to take it out of the oven before the center looks done. It will be kind of wobbly and it will move in one piece. The center will look more shiny than the edges. That's ok because it will continue to cook a little while it's in the pan.

Step 9

Remove from the oven and let cool completely to room temperature. Hope that it doesn't crack.

Step 10

Go ahead and separate the cheesecake from the sides of the pan by running a knife around the edges. I also opened and reclosed the springform pan to help separate.

Step 11

Chill in the refrigerator overnight. That's right. It's best to make this the day before because it needs plenty of time to chill and firm up.

Step 12

Before serving: Heat up some raspberry jelly on low heat until the consistency is thin. Spread on top of the cheesecake. Refrigerate while you do the following.

Step 13

Melt some white chocolate and put it in a ziploc bag or squeeze bottle. Draw abstract shapes on wax paper and let dry.

Step 14

Pour some heavy whipping cream in a small chilled metal bowl. Add 2 Tbsp powdered sugar and beat the cream on high until it becomes firm and thick.

Step 15

Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator and spoon on whipped cream or use a decorating bag with a 1M tip to decorate.

Step 16

Top with fresh raspberries and white chocolate decorations.