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A slice of classic cheesecake topped with strawberries.

Classic New York Cheesecake

A rich and creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust paired with a dense, velvety cream cheese filling. This timeless cheesecake is perfect for celebrations or any special occasion and can be enhanced with fresh fruit, sauces, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 5 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 People

Equipment

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • Mixing bowls (various sizes)
  • Electric mixer (hand or stand)
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven
  • (Optional) Roasting pan for a water bath

Ingredients
  

  • For the crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs about 10 whole crackers, crushed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter melted
  • For the filling:
  • 4 8‑oz packages cream cheese, softened (32 oz total)
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs at room temperature
  • 2/3 cup heavy cream

Instructions
 

  • Preheat and Prepare Pan:
  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  • Lightly grease a 9‑inch springform pan with butter or nonstick spray.
  • Make the Crust:
  • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter.
  • Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  • Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
  • Prepare the Filling:
  • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add 1 1/4 cups sugar, beating until fully incorporated and light in texture.
  • Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until combined.
  • Incorporate the Eggs:
  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until incorporated. (Avoid overmixing to prevent too much air from being incorporated.)
  • Finish the Filling:
  • Stir in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
  • Assemble and Bake:
  • Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
  • For best results and to prevent cracks, place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and pour hot water into the outer pan to create a water bath.
  • Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55 to 70 minutes, or until the center is almost set and still slightly jiggly.
  • Cool Gradually:
  • Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps to prevent cracks.
  • Chill:
  • Remove the cheesecake from the oven (and water bath, if used), then refrigerate for at least 4 hours—preferably overnight—to ensure it is fully set and the flavors meld.
  • Serve:
  • Run a knife around the edge before releasing the springform pan.
  • Slice and serve chilled. Optionally, top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a fruit sauce.
  • Details:
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus additional time for chilling)
  • Cook Time: 55–70 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 5–6 hours (including cooling and refrigeration)
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American (Classic New York style)
  • Diet: Adaptable to gluten-free (use gluten-free graham crackers); otherwise, standard
  • Keywords:
  • Cheesecake, New York Cheesecake, baked dessert, creamy, graham cracker crust, party dessert, classic dessert, rich cheesecake, homemade cheesecake
  • Nutrition (per serving, approximate):
  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
  • Calories: ~450 kcal
  • Sugar: ~25 g
  • Sodium: ~300 mg
  • Fat: ~32 g
  • Saturated Fat: ~18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~10 g
  • Trans Fat: ~0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~28 g
  • Fiber: ~1 g
  • Protein: ~7 g
  • Cholesterol: ~130 mg

Notes

Ensure the cream cheese is completely softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
Mix gently after adding the eggs to minimize air incorporation, which can lead to cracks in the cheesecake.
A water bath during baking helps maintain moisture and reduces the risk of cracking.
Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight results in a firmer, better-set dessert.
Customize with your favorite toppings, such as a berry compote, chocolate drizzle, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Keyword Cheesecake, New York Cheesecake, baked dessert, creamy, graham cracker crust, party dessert, classic dessert, rich cheesecake, homemade cheesecake