Classic New York Cheesecake Recipe

 

Classic New York Cheesecake Recipe

This New York Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and dense with a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for any occasion!

---

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 32 oz (900g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240g) sour cream (room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for stability)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a slight tang)

For the Optional Topping:

• 1 cup (240g) sour cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice; mix until combined.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each one.
4. Sift in flour and gently mix. Do not overmix.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

1. Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a large baking dish.
2. Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust and smooth the top.
3. Create a water bath by filling the baking dish with hot water (about 1 inch deep).
4. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
5. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

4. Make the Topping (Optional)

• Mix sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla, then spread it over the slightly cooled cheesecake.
• Bake for another 10 minutes at 325°F (163°C) if you want a set topping.

5. Chill & Serve

1. Let the cheesecake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
2. Remove from the springform pan, slice, and enjoy!

---

Pro Tips:

✅ Water Bath is Essential – It prevents cracks and keeps the texture smooth.
✅ Room Temperature Ingredients – They blend better and prevent overmixing.
✅ Chill Overnight – This makes the texture perfect and enhances the flavor.

Would you like to add a fruit topping like strawberry sauce?