Problem-Solving Pointers for Cheesecakes
The Cheesecake has Lumps
The cream cheese was not softened before mixing and/or was not thoroughly blended before adding the eggs.
The Cheesecake has a Cracked Top
The batter was overbeaten.
The oven temperature was too high. Check temperature with an oven thermometer.
The cheesecake was overbaked.
Doneness was checked with a knife or toothpick.
The cheesecake was cooled in a drafty area or the oven door was opened during baking.
Next time, try baking the cheesecake in a water bath.
The Top Cracked when the Sides of the Pan Were Removed
You didn't loosen the cheesecake from the sides of the pan with a knife while it was cooling.