New York Cheesecake

This New York Cheesecake recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy, rich, and velvety smooth texture with a buttery graham cracker crust. A timeless classic baked to perfection ideal for celebrations, holidays, or any special dessert craving.

New York Cheesecake Recipe The Ultimate Creamy, Classic Dessert

Few desserts capture the heart and taste buds quite like a New York Cheesecake. Renowned for its dense, creamy texture and delicate sweetness, this iconic dessert represents everything a true cheesecake should be — rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced with a golden crust.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family celebration, a holiday dinner, or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will help you make a professional-quality cheesecake right in your home kitchen. With the right techniques, you’ll achieve that signature silky interior and lightly browned top that defines a true New York-style cheesecake.

Let’s dive into how to make this classic dessert masterpiece from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, helps with structure)
2 tablespoons heavy cream (for extra smoothness)

For the Topping (Optional):

Fresh berries or berry compote
Whipped cream
Lemon zest for garnish

Equipment Needed

9-inch springform pan
Electric hand or stand mixer
Mixing bowls
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet for water bath
Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. The mixture should resemble damp sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom (and slightly up the sides) of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to ensure even packing.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Pro Tip: Chilling or baking the crust helps it stay firm and prevents sogginess once the cheesecake batter is added.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes.
Add in sugar gradually and beat until fully incorporated.
Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour (if using). Beat until the batter is silky and lump-free.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until combined after each addition. Do not overmix; too much air can cause cracks during baking.
Finally, blend in the heavy cream for a rich, velvety consistency.

Step 3: Prepare the Water Bath

A water bath (bain-marie) helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking and keeps it moist.

Wrap the bottom and sides of the springform pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
Place the cheesecake pan in a large roasting pan.
Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Carefully transfer the roasting pan with the cheesecake to the preheated oven (325°F).
Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly when the pan is gently shaken.
Turn off the oven, crack the oven door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
This slow cooling prevents cracks from forming on the surface.

Step 5: Chill to Set

Remove the cheesecake from the oven and water bath. Gently remove the foil.
Run a thin knife around the edge to loosen it from the sides of the pan.
Let it cool completely at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
The chilling step is essential — it allows the flavors to develop and the texture to firm up beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Top with:

Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
A drizzle of berry compote or caramel sauce
A dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a refreshing contrast

Slice with a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for neat slices.

Tips for the Perfect New York Cheesecake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures smooth blending and prevents lumps.
Avoid Overmixing: Incorporating too much air can cause cracks during baking.
Use a Water Bath: Keeps moisture in the oven and helps bake the cheesecake evenly.
Slow Cooling: Sudden temperature changes can make the cheesecake sink or crack.
Chill Overnight: Patience is key — it develops the signature creamy texture.

Flavor Variations

Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake: Add melted chocolate to part of the batter and swirl before baking.
Lemon Cheesecake: Mix in lemon zest and juice for a citrusy twist.
Salted Caramel Cheesecake: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt.
Oreo Cheesecake: Replace graham crackers with crushed Oreos for a rich, chocolatey crust.

Storage and Freezing

Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy New York Cheesecake with:

A fresh fruit compote or strawberry glaze
Chocolate ganache for a decadent touch
Espresso or black coffee to balance the richness
Whipped cream and a dusting of powdered sugar for presentation

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

Calories: 420 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Protein: 8 g
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 16 g
Cholesterol: 125 mg
Sodium: 270 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 25 g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients and portion size.

Overall Thoughts

This New York Cheesecake is the gold standard of desserts a perfect harmony of creamy texture, subtle sweetness, and buttery crust. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering a rich, indulgent experience that’s truly timeless.

It’s the kind of dessert that turns ordinary moments into special occasions. Whether topped with berries, caramel, or chocolate, this classic cheesecake will always impress your family and guests.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why New York Cheesecake remains one of the most beloved desserts in the world.