Introduction:
New York cheesecake is the epitome of indulgence—rich, creamy, and irresistibly smooth. With its dense texture and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s the kind of dessert that never fails to impress. In this post, we’ll show you how to make the perfect New York cheesecake right at home, ensuring each bite is a deliciously unforgettable experience.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 200g graham crackers, crushed
- 100g unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 900g cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 200g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 250ml sour cream, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: lemon zest for a hint of brightness
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F) and grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. - Prepare the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the crumbs are well-coated in butter. - Form the Crust:
Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan using the back of a spoon or your fingers. Ensure it’s evenly spread.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool. - Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to incorporate everything. - Add the Eggs:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. - Finish the Batter:
Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, flour, and a pinch of salt. Be careful not to overmix, just until smooth and velvety.
For an extra flavor twist, you can fold in some lemon zest at this stage. - Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly. - Bake:
Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any potential leaks.
Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still jiggle slightly when you shake the pan. - Cool Gradually:
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside, with the door closed, for an additional hour to cool gradually. - Chill:
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a perfectly set cheesecake. - Serve:
Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice it into wedges and serve cold. For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Conclusion:
With this foolproof recipe, you can recreate the decadence of a classic New York cheesecake right in your kitchen. Whether it’s a showstopper for a special occasion or a comforting indulgence on any day, this cheesecake will never disappoint. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of homemade heaven and savor each creamy, velvety bite. Enjoy!
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, try using a combination of vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste for a deeper, more aromatic vanilla flavor!