There’s something timeless about a Classic New York Cheesecake. Its rich, creamy texture paired with a buttery graham cracker crust makes it a favorite dessert for many. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (plus at least 8 hours to cool)
Servings: 8 to 10
Difficulty: Intermediate
Ingredients for Classic New York Cheesecake Recipe
For the Crust:
- 1 and 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 32 ounces (900g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240g) sour cream, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure it’s compact.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Filling:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add sugar and beat until combined.
3. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Avoid overmixing.
5. Sift in the flour, then add lemon zest and juice. Mix until just combined.
3. Assemble and Bake:
1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55-70 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
3. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
4. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Classic New York Cheesecake plain or with your favorite toppings:
- Fresh berries
- Fruit compote
- Chocolate ganache
- Whipped cream
Tips for Success
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent cracks.
- Use a water bath during baking to maintain even temperature and prevent cracking.
- Chill the cheesecake thoroughly before slicing for clean cuts.
Final Thoughts
Baking a Classic New York Cheesecake may seem daunting, but with this straightforward recipe, you’ll find it quite manageable. The result is a luscious, creamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!
