Ask the Cook
Preventing Cheesecake Cracks
Erica writes, "Every time I make cheesecake it cracks. The recipe says to cook for one hour in a 325 oven. Then shut off heat open door and allow to cool for another hour. Usually it cracks when it is cooling. I'm thinking that it needs another egg but I'm not sure."
Answer:
Most cheesecakes crack while they are cooling. Cheesecake recipes ask that you cook until the center just begins to set but is still jiggling. Or, the cheesecake will puff up and then settle as it cools. This is normal - and delicious.
If it is the appearance that is bothering you try this:
Use an electric mixer to combine 1 cup sour cream, 4 ounces cream cheese, 4 tablespoons heavy cream, 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Spread this mixture on top of your cooled cheesecake. Chill for an additional hour. You can also swirl chocolate or caramel into this topping - or add pecans or crumbled cookies pieces. Don't hesitate to be creative with you cheesecake toppings. It makes your dessert even yummier.
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Jorj Morgan is the Director of Lifestyle Content for BlueSuitMom.com.