Classic Cheesecake with Homemade Cherry Topping

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Heat oven to 325°F.

2. Step 2

   Mix graham crumbs, 3 Tbsp. sugar and butter; press onto bottom of 9-inch springform pan.

3. Step 3

   Beat cream cheese, 1 cup of the remaining sugar and vanilla with mixer until blended. Add eggs, 1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. Pour over crust.

4. Step 4

   Bake 55 min. or until centre is almost set. Run knife around rim of pan to loosen cake; cool before removing rim. Refrigerate cheesecake 4 hours.

5. Step 5

   Meanwhile, mix corn starch and water in medium saucepan. Stir in remaining sugar. Add cherries; stir. Bring to boil on medium-high heat, stirring constantly; cook and stir on medium heat 2 min. or until sugar is dissolved and sauce is thickened. Cool completely. Refrigerate until ready to use.

6. Step 6

   Spoon cherry topping over cheesecake before serving.