Traditional Cheesecake

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine cracker crumbs and sugar; cut in butter until crumbly. Grease the side only of a 9-in. springform pan; press crumb mixture onto bottom of pan. Place on a baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in lemon juice and vanilla. Add eggs; beat on low speed just until combined. Pour filling onto crust. Return pan to baking sheet.
3. Bake at 350° until center is almost set, 45-55 minutes. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the inside edge of pan to loosen; cool 1 hour longer.
4. Refrigerate overnight. Serve with Raspberry Sauce and Sour Cream Topping if desired. Refrigerate leftovers.