New York Cheesecake Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Authentic for Everyone

New York Cheesecake Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Authentic for Everyone

Learn to make a classic New York cheesecake with our easy recipe, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting this rich and creamy dessert!

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Cooling & Chilling Time 12 hours hrs

Total Time 14 hours hrs

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 people

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Roasting pan
• Aluminum foil
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

For the crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter melted

For the filling:

• 4 8 oz packages cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs room temperature
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with aluminum foil.
• Mix and press: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the springform pan.
• Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
• Beat: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth.
• Add sugar: Gradually add sugar, beating until incorporated.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.
• Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until combined.
• Gently fold in flour with a rubber spatula.
• Pour and smooth: Pour filling into the crust and smooth the top.
• Bake: Place the pan in a roasting pan, fill with 1 inch of hot water, and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Cool: Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for 60 minutes.
• Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.

 

Twists and Variations

 

• Chocolate Cheesecake: Add melted chocolate to the batter.
• Lemon Cheesecake: Incorporate lemon zest and juice.
• Pumpkin Cheesecake: Mix in pumpkin puree and spices for fall.
• Oreo Cheesecake: Use crushed Oreos for the crust and batter.

 

Tips for Perfecting

 

• Use full-fat cream cheese and fresh eggs for best results.
• Tap the pan on the counter before baking to release air bubbles.
• Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.
• Check for doneness: edges should be firm, center slightly jiggly.
• Cool the cheesecake gradually to prevent cracks.

Starting

Welcome to our culinary journey into the world of classic New York cheesecake! This iconic dessert has been a staple of American cuisine for decades, beloved for its rich, creamy texture and versatile flavor profile. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through creating a mouthwatering cheesecake that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delectable adventure!

Preparation Time and Total Duration

Before we begin, it’s important to note that making a perfect cheesecake requires patience and time. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Baking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cooling time: 4 hours (minimum)
• Chilling time: 8 hours or overnight
• Total time: Approximately 14 hours (including chilling)

While the total time might seem daunting, most is hands-off, allowing you to go about your day while your sweet sets to perfection.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during baking.
2. For the crust: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Firmly press the mixture into the springform pan, covering the bottom and extending slightly up the sides. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool while you prepare the filling.
3. For the filling: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Gradually add the sugar and beat until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing at low speed after each addition until blended. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix on low speed until combined.
7. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and gently fold it in using a rubber spatula.
8. Pour the filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with about 1 inch of hot water, creating a water bath.
10. Carefully transfer the roasting pan to the oven and bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
11. After baking, switch off the oven. Slightly open the oven door and allow it to gradually cool inside for 60 minutes.
12. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Serving Suggestions

A classic New York cheesecake is delicious on its own, but there are many ways to elevate your serving game:

• Fresh fruit topping: Arrange a medley of fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Fruit compote: Serve with a homemade berry compote or cherry sauce for a tangy contrast.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for a decadent touch.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense cheesecake.
• Caramel sauce: For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of caramel sauce can take this dessert to new heights.
• Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted, chopped pecans or almonds for added crunch and flavor.

Remember to let the serving come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance its creamy texture and flavor.

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of your cheesecake:

• Refrigerator: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days with no problem.
• Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. You can keep it in freeze for 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Individual slices: You can also slice it into individual pieces before freezing. Wrap each slice separately for easy single-serving desserts.

Always ensure your cheesecake is completely cool before storing it to prevent condensation and maintain its texture.

Nutritional Information

Although cheesecake is undeniably a rich dessert, it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one slice (1/12 of the recipe):

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 19g
• Cholesterol: 155mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 28g
• Protein: 7g

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving sizes used. Remember, sweet dessert is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Notes

Here are some additional notes to keep in mind when making your cheesecake:

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Avoid overmixing: Mix the ingredients only until they are combined. Overmixing can introduce excess air, which may cause cracks in your cheesecake.
• Water bath: The water bath is crucial for even baking and preventing cracks. Make sure to wrap your springform pan well to avoid water seepage.
• Cooling process: The gradual cooling process (in the oven, then at room temperature, then in the refrigerator) is important for preventing cracks and achieving the perfect texture.
• Cutting: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.

History and Culture

The New York cheesecake has a rich history deeply rooted in American culture. While dessert itself dates back to ancient Greece, the New York style we know and love today was developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The creation of this iconic dessert is often attributed to Arnold Reuben, owner of the famous Turf Restaurant in New York City. In the 1920s, Reuben was served a cheese pie at a dinner party and was so impressed that he began experimenting with the recipe. He eventually created a creamier, more substantial version using cream cheese, and the New York cheesecake was born.

The dessert quickly gained popularity in New York City’s many delis and restaurants. It became a symbol of the city’s culinary prowess, alongside other iconic foods like bagels and pizza. The New York cheesecake’s fame spread across the country, and it soon became a staple in American dessert culture.

Today, the New York cheesecake is enjoyed worldwide, but it remains a quintessential American dessert. It’s a must-try for tourists visiting New York City and a comfort food for many Americans. The dessert has also inspired countless variations and adaptations, cementing its place in culinary history.

Variations and Modern Twists

While the classic New York cheesecake is a masterpiece in its own right, creative bakers have developed numerous variations over the years. Here are some well-loved variations of the classic recipe:

• Chocolate : Add melted chocolate to the batter for a rich, chocolatey version.
• Lemon : Incorporate lemon zest and juice for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Pumpkin : Perfect for fall, this variation adds pumpkin puree and warm spices to the mix.
• Oreo : Use crushed Oreos for the crust and mix some into the batter for a cookies-and-cream twist.
• Cheesecake Bars: Bake the cheesecake in a rectangular pan and cut into bars for easy serving.
• No-Bake Cheesecake: A lighter version that doesn’t require baking, perfect for summer.
• Vegan : Made with plant-based cream cheese and other dairy alternatives.
• Mini : Individual serving sizes baked in a muffin tin.

Modern twists also include incorporating trendy flavors like matcha, lavender, or salted caramel. Some bakers experiment with savory cheesecakes, incorporating herbs and even vegetables for a unique appetizer or brunch dish.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesecake

Creating the perfect cheesecake takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve great results:

• Quality ingredients: Use full-fat cream cheese and fresh eggs for the best flavor and texture.
• Proper mixing: Beat the cream cheese well before adding other ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.
• Avoid air bubbles: Tap the pan gently on the counter before baking to release any trapped air.
• Even baking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even color, but do it gently to avoid cracks.
• Check for doneness: The cheesecake is ready when the edges are firm, but the center has a slight wobble.
• Prevent cracks: Avoid opening the oven door during baking, and cool the cheesecake slowly.
• Flavor additions: If adding fruits or chocolate chips, toss them in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter to prevent sinking.
• Crust variations: Experiment with different cookies for the crust, like gingersnaps or vanilla wafers.
• Texture control: For a denser cheesecake, use extra-large eggs. For a lighter texture, separate the eggs and whip the whites before folding them in.
• Garnish wisely: Add any toppings or garnishes just before serving to keep the cheesecake’s surface pristine.

Remember, perfecting your dessert technique takes time and patience. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t picture-perfect – even a less-than-perfect cheesecake is usually delicious!

With these tips, tricks, and variations, you’re well-equipped to embark on your cheesecake-making adventure. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with new flavors, the joy of creating and sharing this beloved dessert is sure to bring smiles to faces around your table. Happy baking!

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