The best New York Cheesecake

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper for easy release, and lightly grease the sides with butter.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter and the mixture starts to hold together when pressed. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it down firmly. Place the pan in the fridge while you prepare the filling to allow the crust to set.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Add the Eggs: One at a time, add the eggs, beating well after each addition. Be sure to scrape the bowl between additions to ensure everything is well incorporated. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
5. Add the Sour Cream and Heavy Cream: Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until combined. If you’re using the optional tablespoon of flour, add it now and stir until smooth. This step helps stabilize the cheesecake and gives it that classic, rich texture.
6. Pour the Filling into the Pan: Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake the Cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly when you tap the pan. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools. For an even, crack-free top, you may want to place a small pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam, or simply bake at a low temperature for a longer period.
8. Cool and Chill: Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for an hour with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracking. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to fully set.
9. Add the Topping: Before serving, add fresh berries, fruit compote, or a drizzle of fruit preserves on top for a burst of flavor and color. If you prefer it plain, the cheesecake is just as delicious without any toppings.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cheesecake carefully with a sharp knife, cleaning the knife between cuts to ensure clean slices. Serve chilled and enjoy every bite of this creamy, rich New York cheesecake.

Tips for the Perfect New York Cheesecake:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are all at room temperature. This helps ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can introduce air into the batter, which may cause the cheesecake to crack while baking. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
• Water Bath (Optional): If you want to avoid cracks on top of your cheesecake, you can bake it in a water bath. Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with foil to prevent water from leaking in, then place the pan in a larger roasting pan filled with an inch or two of hot water before baking.
• Chill Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, allow the cheesecake to chill overnight. This ensures it firms up properly and allows the flavors to develop.

Why This Recipe Is the Best:

This New York cheesecake is a showstopper with its perfect balance of creaminess and richness. The dense, smooth texture is what makes it a true New York-style cheesecake, and the graham cracker crust adds a touch of sweetness and crunch. It’s a classic dessert that can easily be customized with your favorite toppings, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress.

Final Thoughts:

Making the best New York cheesecake at home is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dessert that rivals those from the finest bakeries. Perfectly rich, velvety smooth, and with just the right balance of sweetness, this cheesecake is a must-try for anyone who loves this classic dessert. Enjoy it plain or top it with your favorite fruits—either way, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!