Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of a 6-inch round springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine the Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
3. Press Into the Pan: Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the back of a spoon to ensure it’s compact.
4. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s golden and slightly firm. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Sugar and Sour Cream: Add the granulated sugar and sour cream to the cream cheese, beating until smooth and fully combined.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add Heavy Cream: Add the heavy cream and beat until the mixture is smooth and silky.

Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust in your springform pan.
2. Bake: Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted into the edge should come out clean, while the center should have a slight wobble.
3. Cool: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracking.
4. Chill: After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to set and develop.

Add the Toppings

1. Top with Fresh Berries: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, top it with fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Add a Drizzle: If desired, drizzle chocolate ganache or fruit compote over the cheesecake for an extra layer of sweetness and elegance.