1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan and about 1 inch up the sides. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to create an even, compact crust.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
5. While the crust bakes, prepare the cranberry topping: In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, water, 1/2 cup sugar, and orange juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
6. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and beat until combined.
7. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until blended. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.
8. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until just combined.
9. Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
10. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan.
11. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually—this helps prevent cracking, a trick Mama Lou swore by.
12. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set.
13. Before serving, spread the cooled cranberry topping evenly over the cheesecake. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of orange zest.

One of my fondest memories cooking this cheesecake is sharing the process with Ouma. She loved to stir the cranberry sauce, her eyes lighting up whenever a berry popped. It’s those little moments that make cooking together so special.