Description
This classic New York Cheesecake features a rich, creamy filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust, baked to perfection for a smooth texture and indulgent flavor. Perfect for dessert lovers craving an authentic and timeless treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix until fully combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar and continue mixing until the mixture is creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
- Add eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each to ensure a smooth texture and to prevent curdling.
- Blend sour cream and heavy cream: Gently fold in the sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is smooth and homogenous.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the prepared filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the surface with a spatula. Place the pan in a water bath and bake in the oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the center is just set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool gradually: Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking and promote even cooling.
- Chill: Remove cheesecake from the oven, bring to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to set fully before serving.
Notes
- To avoid cracks in your cheesecake, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- For cleaner slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.
- Using a water bath helps maintain moisture and even cooking for a smooth cheesecake texture.
- Refrigerate overnight for best flavor and firmness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
