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Classic New York Cheesecake

A perfect slice of dense and creamy New York cheesecake with a graham cracker crust.

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A dense, creamy, and rich New York-style cheesecake with a classic graham cracker crust. This recipe includes tips for a smooth, crack-free finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until combined. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.
  4. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
  5. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups sugar and beat until well combined.
  6. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract.
  7. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until each egg is incorporated. Do not overmix.
  8. Pour the filling over the prepared crust.
  9. Wrap the bottom of the springform pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan.
  10. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan, reaching about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This is your water bath.
  11. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  12. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
  13. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
  14. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.

Notes

  • For a smoother filling, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter once the eggs are added to prevent cracks.
  • The water bath is crucial for even baking and preventing cracks.
  • Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven helps it set without cracking.
  • Serving this cheesecake with a cherry topping is a classic choice.

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