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Directions
Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it is evenly distributed and pressed down firmly. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the cream cheese, and beat until fully incorporated. The lemon juice adds a touch of tartness that balances the richness of the cream cheese, creating that signature New York cheesecake flavor.
Add the sour cream and flour, and mix until combined. The flour helps stabilize the filling and prevents it from cracking during baking.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
One at a time, add the eggs to the mixture, mixing well after each addition. Be sure not to overmix the batter—mix just until the eggs are incorporated.
Finally, add the heavy cream and mix until smooth. The heavy cream adds an extra layer of richness and contributes to the smooth texture of the cheesecake filling.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles in the batter.
Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for about 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools. The top should be lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean with just a few crumbs.
Step 5: Cool the Cheesecake
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for an additional 1 hour with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracking and allows the cheesecake to cool gradually.
After the hour is up, remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool to room temperature. Once it’s at room temperature, place it in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. The cheesecake needs to be fully chilled before slicing.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake. Carefully remove the sides of the pan. Slice the cheesecake into wedges, and serve plain or with your favorite toppings—fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.
Tips and Variations
- Prevent Cracks: To help avoid cracks in your cheesecake, be sure not to overmix the batter, and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar. Also, avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking.
- Extra Flavor: Try adding a swirl of raspberry, blueberry, or chocolate sauce to the batter before baking to create a beautiful and delicious swirl effect.
- No Springform Pan? If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular 9-inch round cake pan, but be sure to line the pan with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cheesecake.
- Crust Variations: If you want to change up the crust, you can use biscoff cookies, gingersnaps, or chocolate cookies in place of graham crackers for a different flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake
This Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake is a dessert that defines indulgence. The rich, velvety filling is perfectly balanced with the crunchy graham cracker crust, creating a harmonious contrast in every bite. The cheesecake itself is thick and decadent, but it’s not overly dense—each forkful is creamy and smooth, making it irresistible.
What sets this cheesecake apart is its height—it’s a true showstopper, towering over the crust with that beautiful, creamy top that screams “wow.” Whether you serve it plain or dress it up with a few toppings, this cheesecake is always the star of the show.
It’s perfect for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. The best part? It’s simple to make, and with a little patience, you’ll have a dessert that’s not only stunning but also packed with irresistible flavor.
Once you make this Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake, you’ll understand why it’s nearly impossible to resist—and you might just find yourself overindulging. But trust us, it’s totally worth it!
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