Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until well combined. Press the mixture onto the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
• Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.
• In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in sour cream and vanilla extract.
• Stir in amaretto liqueur, if using.
• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
• Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
• Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.