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Classic New York Cheesecake

A perfect slice of New York cheesecake with a golden brown crust and creamy filling on a grey plate.

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A creamy, classic New York cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, baked to perfection without cracks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until combined. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.
  4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add 1 1/4 cups sugar and flour, beating until just combined.
  5. Beat in vanilla extract and lemon zest. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed until just incorporated after each addition. Stir in sour cream.
  6. Pour the filling over the prepared crust.
  7. Wrap the bottom of the springform pan tightly with aluminum foil. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it comes about halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
  8. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  9. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
  10. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
  11. Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Notes

  • For an ultra-creamy texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature.
  • To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter and use the water bath method.
  • Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or your favorite fruit topping.
  • This cheesecake is a great make-ahead dessert for parties.

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