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Classic Creamy New York Style Cheesecake

Classic Creamy New York Style Cheesecake - featured image

A straightforward and reliable New York style cheesecake with a creamy, dense texture and a subtle tang, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 packages (32 oz/900g total) cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
  • Graham Cracker Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar, and melted butter. Stir until crumbs are evenly coated and press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
  2. Using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 1/4 cups sugar, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined to avoid overbeating.
  4. Gently fold in sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix on low speed until smooth and silky.
  5. Optional: Wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil and place it in a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath.
  6. Pour batter over cooled crust. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 70–80 minutes, until edges are set but center jiggles slightly.
  7. Turn off oven and leave cheesecake inside with door slightly open for about 1 hour. Remove from water bath and cool to room temperature on a wire rack.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for smooth batter. Avoid overmixing after adding eggs to prevent cracks. A water bath helps prevent cracking and promotes even baking. Cool cheesecake slowly in the oven before refrigeration. If cracks appear, cover with toppings or gently sand edges once chilled. Cheesecake tastes better after chilling overnight.

Nutrition

Keywords: New York cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, classic cheesecake, dessert, easy cheesecake recipe, graham cracker crust