My favorite Malawian and godson, Vasco, turned 11 today. We went to a little birthday gathering for him chez Cathi and Maury, and I was in charge of bringing cheesecake--Vasco's request. I don't mean to brag, but it was a damn good cheesecake. It made me so happy that everyone liked it. The recipe is a long-time family favorite, courtesy of Dr. Bob O'Connor who is a long-time family friend, an anesthesiologist and an amazing cook--long may he live.

The poem:

Dr. Bob's cheesecake:

for the chocolate ninja who

doesn't like chocolate.

The recipe:

Crust:
¾ c. graham cracker crumbs
2 T. melted butter
1 T. sugar
¼ tsp. cinnamon

Mix together and pat on bottom and sides of a springform pan.

Filling:
2 8oz. packages cream cheese
½ c. sugar
3 eggs
½ - ¾ tsp. almond extract
2 T. fresh lemon juice

Beat together. Pour into crust. Bake at 325 for 35 minutes.

1 c. sour cream
1 1/2 Tbs. sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla

Mix together. Pour over cake. Bake 10 minutes more.