How to Make the Best New York Cheesecake Recipe

Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! Today, I’m super excited to share with you my secrets for making the most divine New York cheesecake. It’s creamy, rich, and everything you’ve ever dreamed of in a cheesecake. Perfect for special occasions or just because, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A classic dessert with a smooth, creamy texture that’s hard to resist
• A straightforward recipe that’s easy to follow, even for beginners
• Perfect for entertaining or as a special treat
• Can be made ahead, making it ideal for busy schedules
• Customizable with your favorite toppings or sauces

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this iconic dessert:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 32 oz (4 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional for structure)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this masterpiece:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until it resembles wet sand.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
3. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add sugar and beat until fully incorporated.
6. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract, blending until creamy.
7. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid over-whipping.
8. (Optional) Sift in the flour for a firmer texture, and mix gently.
9. Pour the filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
10. Place the springform pan in a water bath to prevent cracks: wrap the pan’s exterior in foil and place it in a larger baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the pan.
11. Bake for 55-65 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly.
12. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
13. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
14. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
15. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
16. Spread or pipe the frosting over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your cheesecake turns out perfectly every time:

• Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent cracks.
• Don’t open the oven door during baking to maintain even heat.
• Let the cheesecake cool completely in the oven to prevent cracking.

How to Serve

Once your cheesecake is ready, it’s time to get creative with toppings! Some ideas include:

• Fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries
• Caramel or chocolate sauce
• Whipped cream or a fruit compote

Make Ahead and Storage

This cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other cheesecake creations like the How to Make the Best Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake and the How to Make the Best Blueberry Cheesecake Creamy Delight. For a no-bake option, try the How to Make the Best No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake.

Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media!

New York Cheesecake

A classic New York-style cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, smooth filling.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8 slices

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 32 oz blocks cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional) for structure
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare crust with graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, pressing into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
• Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix in eggs one at a time and optional flour if using.
• Pour filling into cooled crust and bake for 55-65 minutes. Let cool in oven with door slightly open for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours.
• Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe over chilled cheesecake before serving.

Notes

For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality cream cheese and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

Keyword cheesecake