Classic New York Cheesecake Recipe
A rich and creamy Classic New York cheesecake made with a graham cracker crust. This easy, step-by-step baked cheesecake recipe is perfect for both beginners and experts.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- Filling Ingredients:
- 4 8-ounce packages full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional
Instructions
- Preparing the Graham Cracker Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes and allow the crust to cool.
- Making the Cream Cheese Filling:
- Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overmixing.
- Stir in lemon zest (optional).
- Baking the Cheesecake:
- Pour cream cheese filling over the cooled crust.
- Wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil and place it in a larger roasting pan.
- Add hot water to the roasting pan (halfway up the sides of the springform pan).
- Bake for 60-70 minutes until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool in the oven for one hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Notes
For best results, use room-temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth filling.
Always bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracks.
If you prefer a slightly tangier flavor, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream to the filling.
Always bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracks.
If you prefer a slightly tangier flavor, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream to the filling.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 30g
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