STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Preheating is crucial as it helps ensure that the cheesecake cooks evenly and helps achieve the right texture.

STEP 2: PREPARE THE CRUST

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until well combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
2. Press into the Pan: Pour the crumb mixture into a 9-inch springform pan. Using the back of a measuring cup or your fingers, firmly press the crumbs into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan to create an even layer.
3. Bake: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden and fragrant. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely while you prepare the filling.

STEP 3: MAKE THE FILLING

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
2. Add Sugar and Maple Syrup: Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated. Then, pour in the maple syrup, mixing until smooth.
3. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. Overmixing at this stage can lead to cracks in the cheesecake, so be gentle.
4. Add Vanilla and Walnuts: Stir in the vanilla extract and gently fold in the toasted walnuts using a spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.

STEP 4: ASSEMBLE THE CHEESECAKE

Carefully pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Ensure the filling is spread evenly to promote uniform cooking.

STEP 5: BAKE

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 50-55 minutes. The edges should be set, while the center remains slightly jiggly. This slight jiggle indicates that the cheesecake will firm up as it cools.

STEP 6: CHILL

Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open to allow the cheesecake to cool gradually for about an hour. This slow cooling process helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface.

After cooling, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld and enhances the texture.

STEP 7: SERVE

Before serving, drizzle the cheesecake with additional maple syrup and sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for garnish. To slice, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.