Classic Polish Baked Cheesecake (Sernik) made easy!
A classic Polish dessert, this baked cheesecake (Sernik) is creamy, rich, and easy to make, perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Polish
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with aluminum foil.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, 1/4 cup sugar, and salt. Press into the bottom of the springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and mix well.
- Add vanilla extract and mix. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, flour, and lemon zest. Fold into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour the batter over the crust and smooth the top.
- Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill with hot water halfway up the sides.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes until edges are set and center jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cool for an hour.
- Remove from the oven and water bath, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Run a knife around the edge, remove the sides of the springform pan, slice, and serve.
Notes
- For best results, refrigerate overnight before serving.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Use a water bath to prevent cracking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Polish cheesecake, Sernik, baked cheesecake, dessert recipe