Classic New York-Style Cheesecake with a Buttery Graham Cracker Crust

Indulge in the creamy richness of a classic New York-style cheesecake. With its dense, velvety texture and perfectly crisp graham cracker crust, this cheesecake will transport you to dessert heaven with every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a homemade treat, this cheesecake will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave everyone asking for more.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional for a zesty kick)

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly mixed and resembles sand.
3. Press the crumb mixture into the base of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon to compact it firmly.
4. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the sugar and mix until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using).
4. Fold in the sour cream and continue to beat until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the cheesecake mixture into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly wobbly.
3. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for an additional hour with the door slightly open to cool slowly (this helps avoid cracks).
4. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Once the cheesecake is chilled and ready to serve, spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the cheesecake for a light, creamy topping.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
2. Slice and serve, enjoying the smooth, decadent flavor!

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake

1. Avoid Overmixing: Mix the cheesecake batter just enough to incorporate the ingredients. Overmixing can introduce too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake.
2. Baking with a Water Bath: For an even creamier texture, consider baking your cheesecake in a water bath. Simply place the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water before baking.
3. Cool Slowly: Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly open to help prevent cracking.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake

• Velvety Texture: This cheesecake has the perfect dense and creamy consistency that melts in your mouth with every bite.
• Buttery Graham Cracker Crust: The sweet, crunchy graham cracker crust perfectly complements the richness of the cheesecake filling.
• Simple Yet Elegant: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this cheesecake is an easy way to make a classic dessert that impresses every time.

Make This Cheesecake Today!

A slice of this classic New York-style cheesecake is sure to be the highlight of any meal. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s the perfect dessert for birthdays, gatherings, or any occasion. Try it today and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy baking!