Gather ingredients: cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of salt
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C)
Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a little sugar
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan
Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes, then let it cool
Beat the cream cheese until smooth
Add sugar and mix until combined
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition
Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and salt
Pour the filling over the cooled crust
Tap the pan lightly to remove air bubbles
Bake for 50 to 70 minutes until the center is slightly set
Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open
Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight
Remove from the pan before serving
Slice and serve plain or with toppings such as fruit, chocolate, or whipped cream