Dream Cheese Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Combine 1 cup graham cracker crumbs with 3 tablespoons melted butter.
2. 2
   Press in bottom of 9-inch spring-form pan.
3. 3
   Refrigerate. Set aside remaining 1/4 cup of graham cracker crumbs.
4. 4
   Preheat oven to 325°.
5. 5
   Separate eggs, keeping egg yolks whole.
6. 6
   Set yolks aside. Add 1 teaspoon cream of tartar to egg whites, beat until foamy; set aside.
7. 7
   Beat cream cheese until smooth.
8. 8
   Gradually add 3 cups sugar while beating.
9. 9
   Add baking soda and salt; mix well.
10. 10
    Add sour cream; mix well.
11. 11
    Add vanilla; mix.
12. 12
    Add egg yolks one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each one.
13. 13
    Add egg whites; mix thoroughly. Pour mixture into refrigerated spring-form pan.
14. 14
    Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs on top of mixture.
15. 15
    Bake at 325° for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
16. 16
    Increase to 350° until cake is firm.
17. 17
    Turn oven off and crack door.
18. 18
    Let cake cool in oven.
19. 19
    When cool, undo spring-form pan and serve plain or with topping.