Description
A rich, creamy New York–style cheesecake with a golden graham cracker crust and silky, slightly tangy filling. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.
Ingredients
190 g graham crackers (about 12 full sheets)
35 g (≈ 3 tbsp) granulated sugar
70 g (5 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
910 g (32 oz) full‑fat cream cheese (4 blocks), room temperature
325 g (≈ 1½ cups) granulated sugar
½ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
4 large eggs, room temperature
120 g (½ cup) heavy whipping cream, room temperature
240 g (1 cup) full‑fat sour cream, room temperature
2–3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Bring all ingredients to room temperature. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by brushing it with butter, lining the bottom with parchment, and wrapping the outside with foil.
- Pulse graham crackers and sugar in a food processor until fine. Add melted butter and pulse until combined.
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 7–8 minutes, then let it cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, salt, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the eggs. Gradually add them to the cream cheese mixture on low speed until combined.
- Gently mix in heavy cream, sour cream, and lemon juice until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared crust. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
- Place the springform pan into a large baking tray and add hot water to create a water bath.
- Bake for 75–80 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake rest for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and cool at room temperature for 2–3 hours. Refrigerate overnight to fully set.
- Before serving, run a knife around the edge and release the springform pan. Decorate with berries or whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
Do not overmix the filling—this helps avoid cracks and a dense texture.
Using a water bath and gradual cooling prevents cracking.
Cheesecake can be made a day in advance for better flavor and texture.
Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze slices individually for longer storage.
For clean slices, dip a knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 135mg