New York-Style Cheesecake is the gold standard of cheesecakes – rich, dense, and unapologetically indulgent. Unlike lighter versions, this style is known for its ultra-creamy texture and bold flavor, achieved by using a generous amount of cream cheese, eggs, and a touch of sour cream. Every bite is smooth, tangy, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness.
The base begins with a buttery graham cracker crust that’s pressed firmly into the pan and lightly baked, adding a subtle crunch and toasty flavor to contrast the creamy filling. The star of the show, however, is the filling itself, made with full-fat cream cheese blended until silky smooth. A mix of eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream creates a custard-like consistency that’s both decadent and satisfying.
One of the secrets to achieving the signature texture of New York-Style Cheesecake is baking it in a water bath. This gentle cooking method ensures even heat distribution, helping to avoid cracks on top while maintaining a luscious interior. Once baked, it’s best to chill the cheesecake for several hours, or overnight, to let the flavors deepen and the texture firm up beautifully.
While it’s delightful on its own, this cheesecake also pairs well with fresh berries, fruit compote, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. Whether served at a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or as a special treat for yourself, New York-Style Cheesecake is a timeless dessert that never goes out of style.
Elegant yet comforting, this classic dessert offers everything you want in a sweet indulgence: richness, creaminess, and that unforgettable New York charm.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 packages cream cheese 32 oz, softened
- 1 and 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 eggs large,
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- For the Topping:
- Fresh berries or fruit compote optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to create an even crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
- Add sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar for about 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Optionally, top with fresh berries or fruit compote before serving.
Nutrition
I love cheesecake but this one is too sweet for my taste. Next time, I’ll reduce the sugar a bit.
Meh, just a cheesecake. I’ve had better from the store 🙄.
This cheesecake is a game changer! So creamy and delicious. My family devoured it! 😍
Totally agree! This cheesecake is the best thing ever. So creamy and rich! 😋
Next time I’m trying with chocolate! Does it even allow?!
Can someone explain why it needs so many eggs? Seems a bit much! 🤨
I followed the recipe exactly but mine cracked on top. Any tips to prevent that? 3 stars.
Delish! I used almond extract instead of vanilla, it gave a unique flavor!
This cheesecake is amazing! So creamy and delicious. Best recipe ever!
I tried this recipe and it really was the best! Super creamy and so easy to make. Thanks for sharing!
I don’t know about calling it the best ever. I found it a bit too sweet for my taste. Maybe less sugar next time?
Ugh, why is everyone so obsessed with cheesecake? It’s just cream and sugar! So overrated.
Great recipe, I added a bit of lemon zest. It really balanced the flavors. Yum!
It was good, but took too long! I don’t think I have patience for this kinda recipe.
Honestly, I think it was too sweet for my taste. I might cut down on the sugar next time.
I tried making this but my cheesecake cracked on top. What did I do wrong?
Don’t worry, it happens! When baking, make sure to avoid overmixing once you add the eggs. Also, a water bath can help prevent cracking. Good luck next time!
Way too sweet for my taste. I added less sugar but still too much!
Can I substitute cream cheese with cottage cheese? Asking for a friend. 😂
I messed up the crust. I think I added too much butter. Still tastes pretty good though.
I thought cheese and cake was a weird combo. Turns out, I was wrong. This was delicious!
I’m glad you liked it! Cheesecake is just the best, isn’t it? 😋
Yum! I used strawberries & they were a perfect addition! Can’t wait to make it again.
This is the real deal, people. New York vibes in my kitchen! Will definitely make again! 💖
This cheesecake is heavenly! So creamy and delicious, my family devoured it! Definitely making this again!
Totally agree! This cheesecake is worth every calorie. Can’t wait to try it myself!
This rocks! 😍 I’m not much of a baker but even I could do this! Keep it up!
Heck yeah! This cheesecake stole the show at the party! Everyone asked for the recipe! 🍰
Super easy and great results! I added strawberries on top and it was a hit at the party!
This was simply the best cheesecake I’ve ever made! The heavy cream makes it so rich.
Cheesecake? Who needs it! I’ll stick with my chocolate cake, thanks. 😒
I think I messed up somewhere, mine came out all soggy. Not sure if I’ll try again.
Um, is it really necessary to let it sit in the oven for an hour? Seems weird…
Y’all, I’m not a cook, and this turned out fine. Just take your time! 👌🏼
Just made this and wow, it’s the best cheesecake I’ve ever had! My family loved it! 🎉
Cheesecake? More like cheese-GREAT! Loved it! 😊
Haha, love that pun! Cheesecake really is just the best! 🧀💖
I added strawberries and it was delicious! Seems like a great recipe overall. 🌟
I dunno, mine didn’t set properly. I followed every step and it was a soupy mess. What went wrong?
Sounds like you might have overmixed it or didn’t bake it long enough. Don’t worry, it’s tricky sometimes!
I think maybe you didn’t let it cool enough? I always get a good set when I leave it in the fridge overnight like the recipe says!
Got a headache just reading all the steps. Too complicated for me, but maybe it’s good??
I feel ya! The steps look kinda long. But once you get the hang of it, it might be worth it! Maybe try it with a friend?
The crust was so easy to make and paired perfectly with the creamy filling. Yummy!
I dunno, I tried the same recipe and my crust totally fell apart. What did I do wrong?
So glad to hear you loved it! The crust really makes a difference, doesn’t it? 😋
Really? New York-style? Is that just a name or does it actually taste different? 🤔
NO. This is NOT a real cheesecake. A real one doesn’t have sour cream, that’s just wrong lol.