ULTIMATE CHEESECAKE

Steps:

• For the Crust: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the ingredients with a fork until evenly moistened.
• Lightly coat the bottom and sides of an 8-inch springform pan with non-stick cooking spray.
• Pour the crumbs into the pan and, using the bottom of a measuring cup or the smooth bottom of a glass, press the crumbs down into the base and 1-inch up the sides.
• Refrigerate for 5 minutes.
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• For the Filling: In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese on low speed for 1 minute until smooth and free of any lumps.
• Add the eggs, 1 at a time, and continue to beat slowly until combined.
• Gradually add sugar and beat until creamy, for 1 to 2 minutes.
• Add sour cream, lemon zest, and vanilla.
• Periodically scrape down the sides of the bowl and the beaters.
• The batter should be well-mixed but not overbeaten.
• Pour the filling into the crust-lined pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Set the cheesecake pan on a large piece of aluminum foil and fold up the sides around it.
• Place the cake pan in a large roasting pan.
• Pour boiling water into the roasting pan until the water is about halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan; the foil will keep the water from seeping into the cheesecake.
• Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
• The cheesecake should still jiggle (it will firm up after chilling), so be careful not to overcook.
• Let cool in pan for 30 minutes.
• Chill in the refrigerator, loosely covered, for at least 4 hours.
• Loosen the cheesecake from the sides of the pan by running a thin metal spatula around the inside rim.
• Unmold and transfer to a cake plate.
• Using a spatula spread a layer of Warm Lemon Blueberry topping over the surface.
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• For the Topping:.
• In a small saucepan add all the ingredients and simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes or so until the fruit begins to break down slightly.
• Leave to cool before spreading on cheesecake.
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• Slice the cheesecake with a thin, non-serrated knife that has been dipped in hot water.
• Wipe dry after each cut.