There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of New York cheesecake. The creamy, rich filling sits atop a buttery graham cracker crust, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With every bite, you get a taste of nostalgia, reminiscent of family gatherings and celebratory moments. This cheesecake boasts a velvety smoothness that melts in your mouth, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This New York cheesecake recipe is not only straightforward but also yields a stunningly impressive dessert worthy of any dinner party or special gathering. The blend of tangy cream cheese and sweet vanilla is simply irresistible, while the silky sour cream topping gives it a refined finish. Trust me, once you make it, you might just find it becomes your go-to dessert.

Ingredients Needed For New York Cheesecake

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: These create the foundation of your cheesecake. Make sure to crush them finely for an even crust.
• 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar: A little sweetness goes a long way in balancing the flavors in the crust and filling.
• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: This helps bind the crumbs together while adding richness to the crust.
• 24 oz brick-style cream cheese, softened to room temperature: Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth filling. Leave it out for a bit before mixing to ensure it’s easy to blend.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens the cheesecake, giving it that delightful flavor.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best aroma and taste.
• 1/8 teaspoon table salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, complementing the sweetness.
• 5 eggs, room temperature: Bringing eggs to room temperature ensures a smoother batter and better blending.
• 2 cups sour cream: This adds a luscious creaminess and tangy flavor to the topping.
• 1 cup granulated sugar for topping: Adds an extra level of sweetness to balance the tartness of the sour cream.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract for topping: This ties the flavors together, making the cheesecake irresistible.

How to Make New York Cheesecake

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150C).
2. For the crust, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Mix in melted butter until crumbs are moistened. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9” springform pan. Set aside.
3. For the cheesecake filling, beat together cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and salt, mixing until combined. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
4. Pour batter into prepared crust and bake for 60-70 minutes. The center should be jiggly while the edges are set.
5. For the topping, mix sour cream, 1 cup sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla until combined. Pour over the cheesecake and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Let cheesecake cool for 1 hour at room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.

How to Serve New York Cheesecake

Once your cheesecake is chilled and set, slice it into wedges and serve it plain or with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Each slice is a celebration all on its own!

How to Store New York Cheesecake

Keep your leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to preserve it longer, you can freeze slices individually, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before serving!

Tips to Make New York Cheesecake

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This ensures a smooth batter without lumps.
• Bake the cheesecake until the edges are set, but the center is still slightly jiggly; it will firm up as it cools.
• Use a water bath to help prevent cracking on the surface. Simply wrap the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with water during baking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Flavor Twists: You can incorporate flavors like lemon zest, chocolate, or coffee to change the profile of your cheesecake.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free cookies or ground nuts for the crust.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cream cheese and coconut yogurt for the sour cream topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular pie pan instead of a springform pan?

Yes, you can use a regular pie pan. Just be cautious when removing the cheesecake, as it may be more challenging to serve without the easy release of a springform pan.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to cook while cooling.

Can I make this cheesecake in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making it the day before you plan to serve allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the texture will be even better after chilling in the fridge overnight.

This New York cheesecake is sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. With its creamy filling and buttery crust, it captures the essence of comfort food perfectly. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a slice of this classic dessert!

New York Cheesecake

A creamy and rich New York cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Ideal for any occasion, this dessert offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs Crushed finely for an even crust.
• 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the crust.
• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Helps bind the crumbs together.

Filling

• 24 oz brick style cream cheese, softened Ensure it’s softened for easy blending.
• 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cheesecake.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract Use pure vanilla for the best flavor.
• 1/8 teaspoon table salt Enhances all flavors.
• 5 count eggs, room temperature Ensure smoother batter.

Topping

• 2 cups sour cream Adds creaminess and tang.
• 1 cup granulated sugar for topping Balances the tartness of sour cream.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract for topping Ties flavors together.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat oven to 300F (150C).
• For the crust, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Mix in melted butter until crumbs are moistened. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9” springform pan. Set aside.

Filling

• For the cheesecake filling, beat together cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth.
• Add vanilla and salt, mixing until combined.
• Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
• Pour batter into prepared crust and bake for 60-70 minutes. The center should be jiggly while the edges are set.

Topping

• Mix sour cream, 1 cup sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla until combined.
• Pour over the cheesecake and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Cooling

• Let cheesecake cool for 1 hour at room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps. Use a water bath to prevent cracking by wrapping the springform pan in foil and placing it in a larger pan filled with water during baking.

Keyword cheesecake recipe, Comfort Food, cream cheese, dessert, New York Cheesecake