Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake Recipe: A Rich and Creamy Dessert

A Slice of New Orleans Magic: The Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake Story

The Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake isn’t just any dessert; it’s an institution. This decadent treat, synonymous with the renowned Ruth’s Chris Steak House chain, has been delighting diners for decades. Born in the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana, it embodies the city’s rich culinary heritage and love for a truly indulgent experience.

The cheesecake’s signature velvety smooth texture and rich, tangy flavor have become legendary. It’s a perfect marriage of creamy cheesecake filling and a buttery graham cracker crust, finished with a luscious, homemade strawberry topping.

More than just a dessert, the Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake represents a commitment to quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. It’s a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to creating unforgettable dining experiences.

Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake Recipe Card

A classic dessert from the renowned Ruth’s Chris Steak House, this cheesecake is sure to impress with its creamy texture and rich flavor.

Essential Ingredients:

• 240 g / 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 120 g / 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 115 g / 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 120 g / 4 oz granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 120 ml / 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream

Equipment:

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixer
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 420
• Total Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 250mg

Ingredients for Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake

To make an authentic Ruth’s Chris cheesecake, it’s essential to use the right ingredients in the correct proportions. The following list includes all the necessary components, along with their precise measurements and descriptions.

• 400 g / 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 100 g / 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 170 g / 6 ounces unsalted butter, melted
• 900 g / 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
• 400 g / 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 300 g / 1 1/4 cups sour cream
• Optional ingredients:
  • 120 g / 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture
  • 60 g / 1/4 cup caramel sauce for drizzling
  • 120 g / 1/2 cup whipped cream for topping

These ingredients will help create a rich, creamy, and indulgent cheesecake that’s reminiscent of the original Ruth’s Chris recipe. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning, as this will aid in a smooth and even mixing process.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake

This creamy and decadent cheesecake is a classic for a reason. Follow these simple steps to create a slice of heaven right in your own kitchen.

1. Prepare the Crust: Combine 240 g (1 1/2 cups) graham cracker crumbs, 113 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted, and 50 g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 23 cm (9 inch) springform pan.
2. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool completely.
3. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat 907 g (32 ounces) cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar, beating until well combined. Beat in 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract.
4. Add Eggs: Add 4 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Temper with Sour Cream: In a small bowl, whisk together 240 ml (1 cup) sour cream and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour. Gradually add the sour cream mixture to the cream cheese mixture, beating until just combined.
6. Pour into Crust: Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
7. Water Bath: Wrap the bottom of the springform pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and pour enough hot water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
8. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 160°C (325°F) for 60-75 minutes, or until the cheesecake is just set around the edges and the center is slightly jiggly.
9. Cool: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar. Remove from the oven and run a thin knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the sides of the pan.
10. Refrigerate: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake

A perfectly baked cheesecake is a thing of beauty, but it can be a challenge to achieve. Here are some expert tips to help you succeed.

• Use room temperature ingredients. This is crucial for a smooth, even batter. Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before starting.
• Don’t overmix the batter. Mix the ingredients just until they’re combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cheesecake.
• Use a water bath. A water bath helps the cheesecake cook evenly and prevents cracking. Wrap the outside of the springform pan with foil to prevent water from seeping in.
• Don’t open the oven door too often. Resist the temptation to check on the cheesecake too frequently. This can cause it to sink or crack.
• Bake at the right temperature. A temperature of 325°F (165°C) is ideal for a Ruth’s Chris-style cheesecake. This will help the cheesecake cook slowly and evenly.
• Let it cool slowly. After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar. This will help it cool slowly and prevent cracking.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a perfect Ruth’s Chris cheesecake that’s sure to impress.

Substitutions and Replacements in Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake

To achieve the signature taste of Ruth’s Chris cheesecake, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. However, some substitutions can be made without compromising the flavor and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Replace 240 g / 1 cup of granulated sugar with 200 g / 3/4 cup of brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
• Use 120 g / 1/2 cup of almond flour instead of 120 g / 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour for a nutty taste and denser texture.
• Substitute 2 large eggs with 2 flax eggs* for a vegan version.

*To make flax eggs, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.

When substituting ingredients, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly. For optimal results, use a water bath and bake the cheesecake at 160°C / 325°F for 50-60 minutes.

Variations on Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake

Love the classic Ruth’s Chris cheesecake but want to explore new flavor territories? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Chocolate Decadence

   Amp up the richness by swirling in melted dark chocolate (150 g / 5 oz) into the cheesecake batter before baking. Top with a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra layer of indulgence. Baking time remains the same.

2. Lemon Zest Delight

   Brighten things up with a citrus twist! Add the zest of 2 lemons to the batter for a refreshing zing. A lemon curd topping adds an extra layer of tangy goodness. Baking time remains the same.

3. Berrylicious Swirl

   Create a beautiful and flavorful swirl by gently folding a mixture of mixed berries (240 ml / 1 cup) and a tablespoon of cornstarch into the cheesecake batter before baking. Top with fresh berries for a vibrant presentation. Baking time may increase slightly, check for doneness early.

These are just a few ideas to spark your creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment and come up with your own unique variations of this beloved dessert!

Storing and Freezing Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake: Best Practices

After baking and cooling your Ruth’s Chris cheesecake, it’s essential to store and freeze it correctly to maintain its texture and flavor.

Short-Term Storage (up to 3 days)

• Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan.
• Wrap the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator at a consistent temperature below 4°C (39°F).

Long-Term Storage (up to 2 weeks)

• Transfer the cooled cheesecake to an airtight container.
• Wrap the container with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the cheesecake in the freezer at 0°C (-32°F) or below.

Freezing and Thawing

1. Freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months.
2. Thaw the cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
3. Once thawed, store the cheesecake in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake

Even with a precise recipe, issues can arise during the preparation of Ruth’s Chris cheesecake. Identifying and addressing these problems is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor.

Common issues that may occur include:

• Cracked surface: Caused by overbaking or sudden temperature changes. To prevent this, bake the cheesecake in a water bath at 165°C / 325°F and avoid opening the oven door during the baking process.
• Undercooked center: Resulting from insufficient baking time. Ensure the cheesecake is baked for the recommended 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
• Overmixing: Leading to a dense, tough texture. Mix the ingredients just until combined, using 240 g / 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs and 120 g / 1/2 cup of granulated sugar for the crust.
• Sinking or collapsing: Often due to overbaking or incorrect pan size. Use a 23 cm / 9-inch springform pan and avoid overbaking, as this can cause the cheesecake to sink or collapse.

By being aware of these potential issues and taking steps to prevent them, a perfectly baked Ruth’s Chris cheesecake can be achieved, with a smooth, creamy texture and a delicious, caramelized crust.

Nutritional Information for Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake

This decadent cheesecake is a true indulgence, so it’s important to be aware of its nutritional content. Each slice (approximately 1/8 of the cheesecake) provides:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 6g

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.

Dietary Considerations: This recipe is not gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan.

Key Takeaways from the Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake Recipe

The Ruth’s Chris cheesecake recipe offers several essential points and lessons learned for achieving a rich, creamy dessert.
A key takeaway is the importance of using high-quality ingredients, including 240 g / 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs and 450 g / 2 cups of cream cheese.

• Temperature control: Baking the cheesecake at 165°C / 325°F and then cooling it to room temperature is crucial for preventing cracking.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing the batter just until the ingredients come together helps maintain a smooth texture.
• Using a water bath at 165°C / 325°F ensures even cooking and reduces the risk of overcooking the edges.

By following these key takeaways and lessons learned from the Ruth’s Chris cheesecake recipe, you’ll be able to create a decadent dessert with a silky texture and a caramelized sugar crust.

A Touch of New Orleans Magic

This recipe isn’t just about the cheesecake itself, it’s about capturing a little bit of the Ruth’s Chris experience. I’ve always been a fan of their warm, inviting atmosphere and, of course, their legendary cheesecake. After countless attempts, I finally cracked the code!

The Secret’s in the Cream Cheese

The key to that signature richness lies in using high-quality cream cheese. Don’t skimp here – it makes all the difference. I like to let it soften to room temperature before beating it, which helps create a smooth and airy batter.

Baking for Perfection

A water bath is essential for a crack-free cheesecake. It creates a gentle, even heat that prevents the cheesecake from overcooking and developing those dreaded cracks. I always make sure the water level is below the top of the springform pan to avoid any soggy bottoms.

A Hint of Southern Charm

For a touch of New Orleans flair, I like to add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the crust. It complements the rich cheesecake beautifully and adds a warm, inviting aroma to your kitchen.

Conclusion: Mastering the Ruth’s Chris Cheesecake Recipe

We’ve reached the end of our Ruth’s Chris cheesecake recipe journey, and we’re confident you’re ready to create this iconic dessert in your own kitchen. With a few simple steps and high-quality ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, creamy cheesecake that’s sure to impress.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new flavor combinations – after all, that’s what makes baking so exciting! If you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our related recipes, like our classic New York-style cheesecake or decadent chocolate cheesecake.

We can’t wait to see what you create!