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Classic New York Style Cheesecake Recipe

Classic New York Style Cheesecake Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 30 reviews

This Classic New York Style Cheesecake delivers a rich, creamy filling nestled atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Infused with hints of vanilla and lemon, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or any time you crave a decadent yet timeless cheesecake.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (from 12 whole crackers)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt

For the Filling

  • 32 oz (four 8-oz blocks) cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon packed lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed.
  2. Form and bake the crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool.
  3. Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy with an electric mixer on medium speed. Gradually add sugar and continue mixing until well combined and fluffy.
  4. Add flour and flavorings: Mix in the all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and no lumps remain.
  5. Pour and smooth the filling: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to smooth the top.
  6. Bake the cheesecake: Place the springform pan in the oven and bake at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 55 to 70 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center may still have a slight wobble.
  7. Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually, which helps prevent cracking.
  8. Chill the cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
  9. Serve: Release the springform pan sides, slice the cheesecake, and optionally garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream before serving.

Notes

  • Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • Use a water bath if you want to prevent cracks, but it’s optional.
  • Allow the cheesecake to chill overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
  • For easier removal, run a thin knife around the edges before releasing the springform pan.
  • Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: New York cheesecake, classic cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, baked cheesecake, dessert recipe

Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/classic-new-york-style-cheesecake-recipe/