Laurel under the pillow: the old custom of grandparents who did not deserve to be forgotten

Serving: Slice with a hot, wet knife for clean edges.

Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

Variations

Chocolate Swirl: Add melted chocolate into the filling and swirl before baking.

Lemon Cream Cheese Cake: Mix in 1 tbsp lemon zest and 2 tsp lemon juice for a citrusy twist.

Graham Cracker Crust Alternatives: Use crushed cookies (Oreo, digestive biscuits) instead of graham crackers.

FAQ

Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: Yes, but the cake may be slightly less creamy.

Q: Do I need a water bath?
A: Optional. It helps prevent cracking but is not necessary if you bake slowly and cool gradually.

Q: Can I make mini cheesecakes?
A: Absolutely! Use a muffin tin or small ramekins and reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes.