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Classic New York Cheesecake

An authentic recipe for a rich and dense Classic New York Cheesecake, utilizing full-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and a secure water bath technique.

Level Medium Prep 30 min Cook 60 min Servings 12 Score 4.9/10
Ready in
510 min

Makes 12 servings

Prep 30m
Cook 60m
Level Medium

About this recipe

An authentic recipe for a rich and dense Classic New York Cheesecake, utilizing full-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and a secure water bath technique.

A traditional, dense, and ultra-creamy New York style cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust.

Ingredients

Crust

Filling

Equipment

  • 9-inch springform pan Essential for easy removal
  • Electric hand mixer or stand mixer For smooth filling
  • Large roasting pan For the water bath

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.

  2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until combined. Press firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the springform pan.

  3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.

    10 min
  4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together on medium speed until smooth and creamy.

  5. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

  6. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined after each addition. Do not overmix.

  7. Pour the filling over the prepared crust. Bake in a water bath for 55-60 minutes until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.

    60 min
  8. Turn off the oven, leave the door cracked slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.

    360 min

Nutrition

Calories 450
Protein 8g
Carbs 36g
Fat 32g
Fiber 1g
Sugar 28g
Sodium 310mg
Serving Size 1 slice

Cooking Timeline

Prep 30 min
Cook 60 min
Total 510 min

Recipe Scorecard

Overall 9.3 /10
Expert 4.9 95% conf.
  • Taste 9.8
  • Presentation 9.5
  • Nutrition 5.0
  • Value 9.5
  • Instructions 9.5
  • Ingredients 9.5
  • Time Accuracy 9.0
  • Difficulty 7.5
  • Would Make Again 9.2

Expert Review

Verdict

The ultimate New York cheesecake recipe—densely rich, perfectly creamy, and completely crack-free.

Pros

  • Incredibly rich and creamy texture
  • Classic bakery taste
  • Clear instructions

Cons

  • Requires chilling time
  • Water bath adds extra step

Overview

A traditional, dense, and ultra-creamy New York style cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust.

AI Insights

Summary

An authentic recipe for a rich and dense Classic New York Cheesecake, utilizing full-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and a secure water bath technique.

Tips

  • Always use block-style full-fat cream cheese, never spreadable or low-fat tubs
  • Wrap the outside of your springform pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water leaks during the water bath
  • Run a thin knife around the edges of the pan as soon as it comes out of the oven to prevent pulling and cracking as it cools

Substitutions

  • Graham cracker crumbs → Digestive biscuit crumbs
  • Sour cream → Greek yogurt

Storage

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Pairing

  • Fresh strawberry or raspberry coulis
  • Freshly brewed coffee or espresso

AI Cooking Assistant

Ask about substitutions, timing, or technique for this recipe.

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FAQ

Why do I need a water bath?
A water bath provides gentle, even heat and moisture, which prevents the cheesecake from cracking and drying out.
How do I prevent cracks on top?
Ensure all filling ingredients are at room temperature, avoid overmixing the eggs, and let the cake cool gradually inside the turned-off oven.

About the Author

FindEdition Kitchen

Specialty: American cuisine

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