Indulge in the luxurious, velvety texture of a true Classic New York Cheesecake—a dessert known for its dense richness, creamy filling, and signature graham cracker crust. Whether you’re serving guests or satisfying your own sweet tooth, this decadent baked cheesecake is a showstopper that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake
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Authentic New York-style texture – rich, dense, and ultra-creamy
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Simple, classic ingredients found in every kitchen
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Perfect for holidays, birthdays, and dinner parties
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Make-ahead friendly – even better the next day
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Customizable toppings like fruit, chocolate, or caramel
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Crust:
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Graham Cracker Crumbs (1½ cups): Classic cheesecake base that adds a sweet, crunchy contrast.
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Melted Butter (¼ cup): Binds the crumbs and adds rich, buttery flavor.
For the Filling:
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Cream Cheese (24 oz, softened): The star ingredient, providing a rich, dense, and creamy texture.
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Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
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Eggs (3 large): Give structure and creaminess to the cheesecake as it bakes.
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Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds tanginess and a silky finish to the filling.
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Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances flavor with warm, sweet undertones.
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All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp): Helps stabilize the filling and prevent cracking.
Tips and Tricks
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Use room-temperature ingredients to ensure a silky-smooth filling.
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Avoid overmixing once the eggs are added—this reduces air bubbles that cause cracking.
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Bake your cheesecake in a water bath for the smoothest texture (optional but highly recommended).
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Chill thoroughly before serving to achieve the proper set and flavor.
Variations and Customizations
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Add a fruit topping like cherries, strawberries, or blueberry compote.
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Swirl in chocolate, caramel, or raspberry sauce before baking.
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Replace graham cracker crumbs with chocolate wafer crumbs for a bolder crust.
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Add a lemon zest twist for a bright citrus note.
Pairing Suggestions
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with:
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Espresso or coffee lattes
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Fresh berries or berry compote
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Dark chocolate drizzle or shaved chocolate
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Sparkling wines or dessert liqueurs
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days.
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Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Popular Questions
Can I freeze New York cheesecake?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Avoid overmixing, don’t open the oven during baking, and let it cool slowly. A water bath also helps!
Do I need to bake it in a water bath?
It’s optional but ideal for even baking and a smooth top. If skipping, place a pan of hot water on the lower rack for moisture.