Description

This Classic New York Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert indulgence: rich, dense, creamy, and tangy-sweet. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, and a silky smooth texture, this recipe captures everything people love about the iconic New York style cheesecake. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or special occasions, this homemade cheesecake rivals even the best bakery versions.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Filling:

32 oz (900g) cream cheese, softened (4 packages)
1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
1 cup (240g) sour cream
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 large egg yolks, room temperature
1 tbsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for structure)

Optional Toppings:

Fresh berries or berry compote
Whipped cream
Chocolate or caramel drizzle

Instructions

Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, butter, and sugar until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill while you prepare the filling.
Make the filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until creamy. Blend in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla. Add eggs one at a time, then yolks, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
Assemble: Pour filling over chilled crust. Place pan in a larger baking dish and pour hot water halfway up the sides (water bath method).
Bake: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 70–80 minutes, until edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
Cool: Turn off oven, crack door open, and let cheesecake rest for 1 hour. Transfer to refrigerator and chill at least 6 hours or overnight.
Serve: Remove from pan, slice with a warm knife, and top with berries, whipped cream, or drizzle of choice.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients to achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
Do not overmix — excess air can cause cracks.
Always bake in a water bath for gentle, even cooking.
Allow full chilling time for the best texture and clean slices.
Run a thin knife around the cheesecake edge after baking to prevent cracking as it cools.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 80 minutes
Category: Dessert, Cheesecake, Baking, Holiday Recipes
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American, New York Style

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 480
Sugar: 32g
Sodium: 370mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: Classic New York Cheesecake, Traditional Cheesecake Recipe, Homemade Cheesecake, Baked Cheesecake