classic new york cheese cake
Classic New York Cheesecake offers a rich, velvety smooth texture paired with a perfectly baked buttery graham cracker crust. This timeless dessert features simple, high-quality ingredients resulting in luscious flavor and nostalgic appeal. Ideal for celebrations or everyday treats, it’s versatile and reliably delicious every time.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free cookies for crust)
Filling
- 24 oz (680 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240 g) sour cream
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs (can substitute gluten-free cookies for gluten-free option)
- 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, melted
- Prepare the Crust: Finely crush the graham crackers and mix them thoroughly with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust layer. Refrigerate briefly to set while preparing the filling.
- Mix the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid adding excess air. Stir in the flour or cornstarch until just combined.
- Pour and Smooth: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly onto the prepared crust. Use a spatula to smooth the surface for an even bake and attractive presentation.
- Bake Gently: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake the cheesecake for 50 to 60 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when gently shaken. For best results, place the springform pan in a water bath to maintain moisture and prevent cracking.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually inside the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracks. Once cooled, chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up and develop full flavor.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a silky, smooth batter.
- Mix just until combined to avoid cracks and a dense texture.
- Baking in a water bath helps maintain moisture and prevent top cracks.
- Using a springform pan makes removing the cheesecake easier while preserving its shape.
- Cool cheesecake gradually and do not rush the chilling process to avoid cracks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg
Keywords: Classic New York Cheesecake, Cream Cheese Dessert, Graham Cracker Crust, Rich Cheesecake, Creamy Texture, Easy Cheesecake Recipe