Classic New York Cheesecake – The BEST Recipe of Your Life

Introduction

If you’re a cheesecake lover, get ready to meet the richest, creamiest, most indulgent cheesecake of your life! 🍰 This Classic New York Cheesecake is smooth, velvety, and perfectly dense, baked on a buttery graham cracker crust.

Unlike no-bake cheesecakes, this traditional baked cheesecake has a silky texture with just the right amount of tanginess from the cream cheese. Serve it plain, with berries, or drizzled with caramel or chocolate—it’s perfection in every bite!

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Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) blocks of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra stability, optional)

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

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

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and eggs (one at a time), beating on low speed to avoid overmixing.
3. Stir in sour cream, heavy cream, and cornstarch (if using).

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
2. Wrap the pan with foil and place in a water bath (a roasting pan with hot water).
3. Bake for 55-65 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.

Step 4: Cool & Chill

1. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

• Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, caramel, or chocolate drizzle.
• Slice and devour this New York-style masterpiece!

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Servings & Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 60 minutes
• Cooling & Chilling Time: 5+ hours
• Total Time: ~6 hours

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Variations

1. Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake

• Swirl in ½ cup melted chocolate before baking for a marbled effect.

2. Lemon Cheesecake

• Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest and 2 tablespoons lemon juice for a citrusy twist.

3. Gluten-Free Cheesecake

• Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

4. No-Bake Version

• Skip the baking and use whipped cream + gelatin to set the filling.

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Storage & Freezing

How to Store

• Keep in the fridge, covered, for up to 5 days.

How to Freeze

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap + foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Thaw

• Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

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FAQs About Classic New York Cheesecake

1. How do I prevent cracks?

• Use a water bath and don’t overmix the batter!

2. Can I skip the sour cream?

• Yes, but it adds richness. Substitute with Greek yogurt.

3. Do I have to use a springform pan?

• It’s recommended for easy removal, but a deep pie dish works too.

4. Can I use a store-bought crust?

• Yes! But homemade is always more delicious.

5. My cheesecake turned out too soft—what happened?

• It likely wasn’t chilled long enough. Give it at least 4 hours!