
Creamy New York-Style Cheesecake with a Golden Graham Cracker Crust
Indulge in the smooth, velvety goodness of this classic New York-style cheesecake. With a rich, creamy filling nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert will melt in your mouth with each bite. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or enjoying a quiet night in, this cheesecake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for a touch of zest)
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until fully combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to pack it tightly.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Set it aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue mixing until combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice (if using).
- Fold in the sour cream and mix until smooth and well incorporated.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled graham cracker crust. Spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This helps prevent cracking.
- After the hour, remove the cheesecake and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream
- In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Once the cheesecake has chilled, top it with the whipped cream, spreading it evenly or piping it around the edges.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on a serving platter.
- Slice and serve this creamy, dreamy dessert!
Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesecake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Prevent Cracking: Bake the cheesecake slowly and allow it to cool gradually in the oven to minimize cracks.
- Let It Chill: The cheesecake needs to chill for at least 4 hours to set properly, but overnight chilling will give the best results.
Why This Cheesecake is Unforgettable
- Rich and Creamy: With a thick, creamy texture, this cheesecake is a true indulgence.
- Golden Graham Cracker Crust: The slightly sweet and buttery crust perfectly balances the rich filling.
- Simple Yet Elegant: This cheesecake is easy to make and delivers impressive results, making it perfect for any occasion.
Make This Cheesecake Today!
This classic New York-style cheesecake with a graham cracker crust is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, this cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Try it out today and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!