New York-Style Cheesecake Recipe

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
  3. Mix everything together until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  4. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
  5. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Stir in the flour until just incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake

  1. Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled graham cracker crust.
  2. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly across the crust.
  3. Tap the springform pan gently on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

  1. Place the cheesecake in a larger roasting pan filled with about 1 inch of hot water (this helps prevent cracking). This is called a bain-marie or water bath.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
  3. Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
  4. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
  5. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Once chilled, the cheesecake will be firm and ready to slice.
  2. Garnish with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.
  3. Serve chilled.

Tips:

  • Crust Variations: You can use crushed digestive biscuits, crushed cookies, or even crushed pretzels instead of graham crackers for a different flavor.
  • Preventing Cracks: To minimize cracks, ensure the cheesecake cools slowly in the oven and avoid overbaking.
  • Storage: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Enjoy your delicious New York-Style Cheesecake! 😊