New York-Style Cheesecake Recipe

This classic New York-Style Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and utterly decadent. With its buttery graham cracker crust and velvety smooth filling, it’s the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving something indulgent, this cheesecake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 4 ounces graham crackers , broken into pieces
• ¼ teaspoon coarse salt
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 2 ½ pounds cream cheese (five 8-ounce packages), room temperature
• 4 ounces unsalted butter , room temperature
• 8 ounces sour cream , room temperature
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs , plus 2 egg yolks , room temperature
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) . Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Crust

• In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers into fine crumbs. Alternatively, place them in a resealable plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin.
• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, coarse salt , sugar , and melted butter . Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes , then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

3. Make the Filling

• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Add the sour cream and mix until fully incorporated.
• Gradually add the granulated sugar , beating on low speed until combined, then increase the speed to medium and mix for another 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs and egg yolks , one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Avoid overmixing, as this can incorporate too much air and cause cracks in the cheesecake.
• Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract until just combined.

4. Assemble and Bake

• Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.
• Place the springform pan on a baking sheet (to catch any leaks) and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes , or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
• Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour . This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracks.

5. Chill the Cheesecake

• Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6–8 hours , or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set completely.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Run a knife around the edges of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake before releasing the sides. Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.
• Serve plain or top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of fruit sauce for added flavor.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients (cream cheese, butter, sour cream, and eggs) are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Prevent Cracks: Avoid overmixing the batter and use the gradual cooling method described above to minimize cracking.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freeze slices for longer storage (up to 2 months) and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Customize Toppings: Experiment with toppings like caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or a mixed berry compote for variety.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This New York-Style Cheesecake is the epitome of indulgence. Its dense, creamy texture and rich flavor make it a timeless dessert that never goes out of style. The buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect contrast to the luscious filling, while the hint of lemon zest adds a subtle brightness. Whether served plain or dressed up with toppings, this cheesecake is a showstopper that’s worth every bite.

Indulge in this classic dessert—it’s pure cheesecake perfection!