How to make the perfect cheesecake crust

Creating the perfect cheesecake crust is essential for a delicious dessert. Follow these expert tips to achieve a flawless crust every time.

Why is the crust important in a cheesecake?

The crust of a cheesecake provides a sturdy base for the creamy filling. It adds texture and flavor to complement the richness of the cheesecake.

What kind of crust should I use?

Graham crackers are the most common and versatile choice for cheesecake crusts, offering a classic, slightly sweet flavor and a good texture that holds up well. However, most kind of cookies are good or even better choices. Chocolate chips cookies add extra flavor and/or crunch.

You can also use a thin slice of baked sponge cake. But it will not have the crust associated with cheesecake crumble.

Graham cracker crumbs are a little bit bland on their own. Therefore, it should be mixed with butter and sugar. See the recipe below.

When using rich cookies for the crumbs, you do not have to add anything. Simply press them down firmly. But this will not work if you want to line the sides. In that case mix them with the melted butter as the recipe for graham cracker below. You can cut back the sugar or eliminate it completely since cookies are much sweeter than graham crackers.

Graham cracker crust recipe

Enough for an 8-inch mold

• ·         6 oz graham cracker (about 12 cracker sheets if using store bought)
• ·         3 oz butter (preferably melted)
• ·         2 oz sugar

Cookie crust recipe

Enough for an 8-inch mold

• ·         6 oz butter cookies or other rich cookies. Chocolate chip preferred 
• ·         3 oz butter (preferably melted)
• ·         1 oz sugar

Add those ingredients to the food processor. Pulse until crumbly.

You can also use a resealable plastic bag and a rolling pin.

Or you can simply mix them by hand. Place the ingredients is a bowl and mix with a large wooden spoon. 

How to fill the mold with the crumble.

Apply the crumble manually. Press uniformly with the palm of your hands. Then Utilize a flat straight cup to compress evenly and firmly until solid. If lining the sides, firmly press the crust against the mold using the side of the cup.

Do I have to grease the baking mold?

You do not need to grease the mold for a high-fat rich cookie, especially if butter is mixed in. However, if you are using Graham cracker for the crumbs, greasing the mold is recommended since they have a lower fat content and will stick stronger after baking.

Should I line the sides or only the bottom?

It is a personal choice. Some bakers line the sides 3/4 up for a nice effect

Should I bake the crust?

Baking the crust is recommended when using graham cracker crumbs. It will add flavor and avoid the filling sogging the crust. Do not overbake.