Cotton Candy Cheesecake
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
24 oz cream cheese (3 packages), softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 large eggs
Cotton candy flavoring or syrup (optional, for flavor and color)
For the Topping:
Cotton candy (for garnish)
Sprinkles (optional)
Directions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Make the Crust:
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, then cool completely.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
Beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Optionally, stir in cotton candy flavoring for a burst of flavor and color.
Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
Chill:
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Add the Toppings:
Before serving, garnish with cotton candy and sprinkles for an extra fun touch.