1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a uniform crust. You can use the back of a spoon or your hands.

4. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. Set it aside to cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.

2. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until fully combined.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. Mix in the sour cream and flour until smooth. The batter should be thick but creamy.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly.

2. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

3. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the center is almost set (it should still be slightly wobbly). The top should have a light golden color.

4. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This will help prevent cracking.

5. After 1 hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool at room temperature for an additional 30 minutes.

6. Once cooled, place the cheesecake in the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

4. Prepare the Cherry Topping:

1. If using canned cherry pie filling, you can simply spoon it over the cooled cheesecake.

2. If using fresh cherries, rinse and pit them. Combine them in a small saucepan with sugar and cook over medium heat until the cherries are soft and syrupy. If you prefer a thicker topping, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water and stir until it thickens. Let the topping cool before adding it to the cheesecake.

5. Serve:

1. Once your cheesecake has chilled and the topping is ready, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.

2. Spoon the cherry topping over the chilled cheesecake.

3. Slice and serve. Enjoy your delicious homemade cherry cheesecake!