Smoked Gouda & Chive Cheesecake with New York-style Filling and Whipped Cream Topping

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of Norman's Kosher Cholov Yisroel Cream Cheese
• 1 cup finely grated smoked Gouda cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped chives
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the Norman's Kosher Cholov Yisroel Cream Cheese at medium speed until smooth. Add the grated smoked Gouda and chopped chives, and beat until well combined.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed. Beat in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Leave the cheesecake in the oven for an additional 15 minutes, then remove and let cool to room temperature.
7. Cover and chill the cheesecake in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
8. Top with whipped cream before serving.