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New York Style Cheesecake

A rich, dense, and silky New York Style Cheesecake with a graham cracker crust and optional sour cream topping, perfect for any dessert lover chasing that dreamy bite.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For The Crust
  • 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
For The Filling
  • 4 packages 8 oz each cream cheese (at room temperature)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs
For The Topping (Optional But Fabulous)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Mix 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter in a bowl until the mixture has a wet sandy texture.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, beat 4 packages of cream cheese until smooth.
  5. Add 1 cup sugar and beat until fully incorporated.
  6. Mix in 1 cup sour cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  7. Add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition. Do not overmix.
  8. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
  9. Wrap the bottom of the pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water (water bath).
  10. Bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes at 325 degrees Fahrenheit, or until the center slightly jiggles but is mostly set.
  11. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest in the oven for 1 hour.
  12. Remove from oven, cool on the counter to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours.
  13. For the topping, mix 1/2 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Spread a thin layer on the chilled cheesecake.
  14. Let the cheesecake set in the fridge for an additional hour before serving.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese, are at room temperature to avoid lumps. Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a creamy texture. A proper water bath helps prevent cracking. For the best flavor and texture, chill the cheesecake overnight.