Classic New York Cheesecake Made Easy

 

Introduction

Enjoy a rich, dense, and ultra-creamy New York‑style cheesecake—with a buttery graham cracker crust and tangy filling. This beginner‑friendly recipe results in a stunning, crack‑free cake perfect for any special occasion.(Butternut Bakery)

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups (170 g) graham cracker crumbs

• 4 Tbsp (55 g) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 Tbsp granulated sugar (optional)(YouTube)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (≈680 g) full‑fat cream cheese, room temperature

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

• 3 Tbsp (30 g) cornstarch or flour(YouTube)

• 5 large eggs (plus 1 egg yolk), room temperature(YouTube)

• 1½ tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp salt (optional)

• 1 cup (≈250 g) sour cream, room temperature

• 2 tsp lemon juice (for brightness)(Brown Eyed Baker)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

• Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).

• Combine graham crumbs, melted butter (and sugar if using). Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan. Chill in the fridge while preparing the filling.(YouTube, Brown Eyed Baker)

Step 2: Make the Filling

• Beat cream cheese and sugar on low until smooth.

• Add cornstarch, eggs, egg yolk, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt. Mix gently and slowly—avoid whipping in air.(Brown Eyed Baker, Butternut Bakery)

• Fold in sour cream until mixture is silky and uniform.(Brown Eyed Baker, YouTube, Butternut Bakery)

Step 3: Bake (with or without water bath)

Water bath method (preferred for crack-free top):

• Wrap the pan in foil and place in a larger roasting pan. Add hot water to come halfway up sides of cake pan.

• Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 1 hour or until edges are set and center jiggles slightly.(YouTube, Butternut Bakery)

No water bath method:

• Bake as above without water bath, but maintain low, slow baking temperature to prevent cracking.(Butternut Bakery)

Step 4: Cool Gradually

• Turn the oven off; crack the door open and let the cheesecake cool in place for 1 hour to avoid temperature shock.

• Remove from oven and let sit at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 6 hours or overnight. This slow cooling ensures a silky, crack‑free surface.(Butternut Bakery)

💡 Expert Tips

• Use full-fat cream cheese and room-temperature dairy to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.(Epicurious, Butternut Bakery)

• Mix on low speed to avoid air bubbles which can cause cracks.(Butternut Bakery)

• Choose high-quality ingredients, and if cracks do appear, top with fruit compote, sour cream topping, or caramel.(Epicurious)

🎥 Video Tutorial