Classic New York Cheesecake

Posted on April 15, 2026

Slice of classic New York cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

why make this recipe

Classic New York Cheesecake is a beloved dessert known for its rich, creamy texture and delicious flavor. It is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or even just a sweet treat for yourself. Making this cheesecake at home allows you to enjoy a fresh, homemade dessert that is sure to impress your friends and family.

how to make Classic New York Cheesecake

Ingredients :

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

Directions :

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with butter.
  3. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
  4. Add the melted butter to the crumb mixture and stir until fully combined.
  5. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
  6. Place the pan in the oven and bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
  8. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated.
  9. Add the vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
  10. Add the sour cream and heavy cream, and beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  11. Crack the eggs into a separate bowl, then add them one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition.
  12. Add the all-purpose flour and mix until fully combined, being careful not to overmix.
  13. Pour the cream cheese batter over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
  14. Smooth the top of the batter with a spatula to make it even.
  15. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to remove any air bubbles from the batter.
  16. Place the springform pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles.
  17. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
  18. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 2 hours.
  19. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to fully set.
  20. Before serving, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
  21. Slice the cheesecake with a sharp knife and serve chilled.

how to serve Classic New York Cheesecake

Classic New York Cheesecake is best served chilled. You can enjoy it plain or top it with fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream. A simple slice of cheesecake is always a hit!

how to store Classic New York Cheesecake

To store leftovers, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly.

tips to make Classic New York Cheesecake

  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth batter.
  • Do not overmix the batter after adding the eggs; this can create a dense texture.
  • For best results, let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven to prevent cracking.

variation

You can add different flavors or toppings to your cheesecake. For example, mix in some lemon juice or zest for a refreshing twist. You can also fold in chocolate chips or swirl in fruit purees before baking.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of crust?
A: Yes, you can use cookie crumbs, such as Oreo or digestive biscuits, for a different flavor.

Q: How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
A: The edges should be set, but the center will still have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or even two ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve it.

Slice of classic New York cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries

Classic New York Cheesecake

A rich and creamy dessert that's perfect for any occasion, this homemade cheesecake is sure to impress your friends and family.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
  • 4 packages (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with butter.
  3. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
  4. Add the melted butter to the crumb mixture and stir until fully combined.
  5. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
  6. Place the pan in the oven and bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool.
Making the Filling
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
  4. Add the sour cream and heavy cream, and beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  5. Crack the eggs into a separate bowl, then add them one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition.
  6. Add the all-purpose flour and mix until fully combined, being careful not to overmix.
Baking
  1. Pour the cream cheese batter over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan.
  2. Smooth the top of the batter with a spatula to make it even.
  3. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to remove any air bubbles from the batter.
  4. Place the springform pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles.
Cooling and Serving
  1. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
  2. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 2 hours.
  3. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to fully set.
  4. Before serving, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
  5. Slice the cheesecake with a sharp knife and serve chilled.

Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth batter. Do not overmix the batter after adding the eggs; this can create a dense texture. For best results, let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven to prevent cracking.

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