New York Style Cheesecake

There’s nothing quite like a classic New York-style cheesecake to bring a smile to your face and sweeten your day. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newcomer to the world of dessert-making, this rich, creamy, and indulgent treat is sure to impress both you and your guests. With its velvety texture and delicious graham cracker crust, it’s no wonder this iconic dessert has become a favorite across the nation.

Imagine the delight of your friends and family as you present them with a beautifully baked New York-style cheesecake. The smooth, creamy filling contrasts perfectly with the slightly crumbly crust, making each bite a heavenly experience. This cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for any celebration or simply to enjoy on a quiet evening at home.

Now, you might be thinking that making a cheesecake from scratch is an overwhelming task, but fear not! With a few simple tips and tricks, you’ll find that creating this masterpiece is easier than you ever imagined. Let’s explore some key points that will set you up for cheesecake success.

Firstly, it’s essential to use room temperature ingredients. This means allowing your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to sit out for about an hour before you begin. Working with room temperature ingredients ensures a smoother, creamier filling without any lumps.

Another vital tip is to avoid overmixing your batter. Mixing too much can incorporate air into the mixture, leading to cracks in your cheesecake as it bakes. Gently fold in your ingredients to achieve that flawless, crack-free surface.

Now, let’s talk about the crust. A classic New York-style cheesecake features a simple yet scrumptious graham cracker crust. By using the right amount of butter and sugar, you’ll create a crust that holds together beautifully while still offering a delightful crumbly texture.

When it comes to baking your cheesecake, slow and steady wins the race. A lower oven temperature and a longer baking time will allow your cheesecake to cook evenly, preventing overbaking and the dreaded burnt edges. Patience is key, as is using a water bath to ensure even cooking and moisture.

Once your cheesecake is baked to perfection, it’s crucial to let it cool slowly. This helps prevent any cracks from forming and ensures that your cheesecake maintains its luscious, creamy texture.

By following these tips and embracing your inner pastry chef, you’ll create a New York-style cheesecake that’s nothing short of spectacular. Serve it up with a drizzle of fruit compote, a dollop of whipped cream, or simply enjoy it as-is, savoring each delectable bite. 

No matter how you choose to indulge, you’ll find that this classic dessert never disappoints. Happy baking!

New York Style Cheesecake

Course: DessertCuisine: American

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Master the art of making a velvety, rich, and indulgent New York-style cheesecake with this foolproof recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 cup sour cream, room temperature

• Optional toppings: fruit compote, whipped cream, or fresh berries

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
• In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons sugar until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan.
• In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Be careful not to overmix to avoid incorporating too much air into the batter.
• Stir in the sour cream until just combined.
• Pour the cream cheese filling over the graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
• Wrap the bottom and sides of the springform pan with aluminum foil. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan, creating a water bath.
• Bake the cheesecake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
• Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour.
• Remove the cheesecake from the oven, carefully lift it out of the water bath, and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Notes

• Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother, creamier cheesecake filling.
• Use a water bath to ensure even cooking and prevent cracking.

This Classic New York-Style Cheesecake pairs well with a variety of toppings, such as fruit compote, whipped cream, or fresh berries, making it a versatile dessert for any occasion.

Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade dessert, this cheesecake is sure to impress and delight.