Square Baked Cheesecake with Golden Crust

### Instructions: How to Make Square Baked Cheesecake with Golden Crust

#### Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. **Preheat your oven** to 325°F (163°C) and line a square baking pan (about 8×8 or 9×9 inches) with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal of the cheesecake later.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the **graham cracker crumbs**, **sugar**, and **pinch of salt**.
3. Pour in the **melted butter** and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated, and the mixture has a slightly damp, sandy texture.
4. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly and evenly.
5. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for **10 minutes** until golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the **cream cheese** with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about **2 minutes**.
2. Add the **sugar** and continue mixing until the sugar is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the **eggs** one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be sure not to overmix to prevent air bubbles from forming in the batter.
4. Mix in the **vanilla extract** and **flour**, ensuring they are well combined.
5. Add the **sour cream** and **heavy cream** to the mixture, and beat until the filling is smooth and well-combined.

#### Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the prepared cheesecake filling onto the cooled **graham cracker crust** in the square pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
2. Bake the cheesecake in the oven at **325°F (163°C)** for **45-50 minutes**, or until the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools.
3. Once done, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about **1 hour** with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface.
4. After the cheesecake has cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least **4 hours**, but preferably **overnight** for the best texture and flavor.

#### Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once chilled, carefully lift the cheesecake from the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place it on a cutting board. Cut the cheesecake into squares, making sure to wipe the knife clean between each cut to keep the edges neat.

You can serve the cheesecake as is, or top it with fresh fruit, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. The beauty of this dessert is its versatility, so feel free to get creative with your toppings!

### Tips for the Perfect Square Baked Cheesecake

– **Use Room Temperature Ingredients**: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
– **Don’t Overmix**: While it’s important to thoroughly combine the ingredients, overmixing can lead to air bubbles in the batter, which can cause cracks during baking.
– **Avoid Overbaking**: Keep an eye on the cheesecake as it bakes. It’s done when the edges are set, and the center is just slightly jiggly. Overbaking can cause the cheesecake to become dry and cracked.
– **Let It Cool Slowly**: Allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven before chilling in the refrigerator helps prevent cracking and gives the dessert a smooth, even texture.
– **Chill Overnight**: For the best results, let the cheesecake chill in the refrigerator for **at least 4 hours**, but overnight is even better. This helps the flavors meld and gives the cheesecake time to firm up.

### Variations and Toppings

The great thing about cheesecake is that it’s highly adaptable. Here are a few ideas for different toppings or flavor variations you can try:

1. **Fruit Toppings**: Fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, add a refreshing and vibrant burst of flavor. You can also make a quick berry compote by simmering berries with sugar until thickened.
2. **Caramel Drizzle**: A decadent **caramel sauce** drizzled over the top of the cheesecake adds richness and sweetness, making every bite even more indulgent.
3. **Chocolate Ganache**: For a chocolate lover’s twist, pour a smooth **chocolate ganache** over the top after the cheesecake has cooled. It adds a silky, glossy finish.
4. **Nutty Crunch**: Sprinkle chopped nuts like **pecans**, **walnuts**, or **almonds** on top for added texture and flavor.
5. **Swirled Flavors**: Add a layer of **fruit puree**, **chocolate**, or **peanut butter** to the cheesecake filling before baking for a marbled effect.

### Conclusion

**Square Baked Cheesecake with Golden Crust** is a stunning and indulgent dessert that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy filling and golden, buttery crust, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a sweet treat, this cheesecake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

By following a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that’s not only beautiful but also full of flavor. And with endless topping possibilities, you can customize it to suit your personal preferences. So, grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy a slice of this decadent square cheesecake — you deserve it!