How to Make Light and Airy Cheesecake - A Step-by-Step Guide

There's nothing quite like indulging in a rich and creamy cheesecake, but sometimes the heavy feeling that comes with it can be a bit too much. That's why we're excited to share this recipe for a light and airy cheesecake that still delivers all the deliciousness you crave, but without the heaviness.

This cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it's a special dinner with friends or a casual weekend treat for yourself. The light and airy texture makes it feel like y...

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Ingredients

  • ½ (12 ounce) package vanilla wafers, crushed
  • 3 eggs, separated
  • ½ cup white sugar
  • 8 ounces sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • ⅛ teaspoon cream of tartar

Information

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 1 hr 50 mins
  • Additional Time: 4 hrs
  • Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 8 servings

  • Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Wrap the exterior of an 8-inch springform pan with aluminum foil, then spray the interior with cooking spray. Spread the vanilla wafer crumbs over the bottom and sides of the pan, pressing firmly to adhere.
  • Cream together the egg yolks and sugar in a large bowl. Stir in the cream cheese, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Beat egg whites until foamy in a large glass or metal mixing bowl. Add the cream of tartar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Lift your beater or whisk straight up: the egg whites should form a sharp peak that holds its shape.
  • Use a rubber spatula or wire whisk to fold 1/3 of the egg whites into the cream cheese mixture . Gently run the spatula through the center of the bowl, then around the sides of the bowl, repeating until fully incorporated. Add the remaining egg whites, folding just until incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan. Line a roasting pan with a damp kitchen towel. Place springform pan on towel, inside roasting pan, and place roasting pan on oven rack. Fill roasting pan with boiling water to reach halfway up the sides of the baking dish.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes. The cheesecake is ready when the edges have nicely puffed and the surface of the cheesecake is firm except for a small spot in the center that will jiggle when the pan is gently shaken. Turn off the oven, and allow the cheesecake to rest in the oven for 1 hour before placing into the refrigerator, and cooling 4 hours to overnight.
  • Nutrition

    335 cal.

    • Total Fat: 22g
    • Saturated Fat: 12g
    • Cholesterol: 113mg
    • Sodium: 189mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 30g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Total Sugars: 13g
    • Protein: 6g
    • Vitamin C: 0mg
    • Calcium: 71mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 131mg