Classic New York Cheesecake – The BEST Recipe of Your Life

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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!

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)

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!

Servings & Timing

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

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.

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.

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!

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