New York Cheesecake – Rich, Creamy & Timeless
Introduction
This New York Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for cheesecake lovers. With its buttery graham cracker crust, dense yet creamy filling, and subtle vanilla flavor, it’s a recipe that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it plain or topped with fruit, this cheesecake is a guaranteed crowd‑pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic flavor: Smooth cream cheese filling with a hint of vanilla.
Perfect texture: Dense yet creamy, just like a true New York cheesecake.
Make‑ahead friendly: Best when chilled overnight.
Versatile: Delicious plain or with fruit toppings.
Ingredients
Crust
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup melted butter
¼ cup sugar
Filling
4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1¼ cups sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp all‑purpose flour
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9‑inch springform pan.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into bottom of pan.
Step 3: Prepare Filling
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar. Mix in eggs one at a time, just until combined. Stir in sour cream, vanilla, and flour until smooth.
Step 4: Bake
Pour filling over crust. Bake 55–65 minutes, until center is almost set but slightly jiggly.
Step 5: Cool Gradually
Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool for 1 hour. Remove and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 6: Serve
Slice and enjoy chilled. Top with fruit, whipped cream, or leave plain.
Tips & Tricks
Room‑temperature cream cheese: Prevents lumps.
Avoid cracks: Run a knife around edge after baking.
Extra richness: Use full‑fat sour cream.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze (without topping) up to 2 months.
Variations
Berry Topping: Add strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate and pour over slices.
Citrus Twist: Add lemon or orange zest to filling.
Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
Serving Ideas
Serve with fresh fruit compote.
Pair with coffee or espresso.
Garnish with whipped cream rosettes.
Add caramel sauce for indulgence.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a water bath?
Yes, it helps prevent cracks, but this recipe works without one.
Q: Can I make this gluten‑free?
Yes, use gluten‑free graham crackers for the crust.
Q: Can I add flavor extracts?
Absolutely—almond or lemon extract adds a twist.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 55–65 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours+
Total Time: ~5 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Calories: ~420 kcal per serving
Final Thoughts
This New York Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and timeless. With its buttery crust and velvety filling, it’s a dessert that will impress every time—whether served plain or dressed up with toppings.