New York-Style Cheesecake Recipe | Classic Creamy Dessert with Strawberry Topping

New York-Style Cheesecake Recipe

A dense and creamy dessert, often served plain or with a luscious strawberry topping.

New York-Style Cheesecake is known for its rich, velvety texture, baked slowly for the perfect balance of creaminess and structure. This classic dessert sits on a buttery graham cracker crust and can be enjoyed plain or with fresh fruit toppings.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 crackers)
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)

For the Strawberry Topping (Optional):

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon (if using), and melted butter until evenly coated.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Flavoring: Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Incorporate the Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined—do not overmix to avoid cracking.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Wrap the Pan: Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in two layers of aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
2. Prepare a Water Bath: Place the cheesecake pan inside a larger baking dish and fill with 1 inch of hot water. This helps prevent cracking.
3. Bake for 60-70 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
4. Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake sit inside for 1 hour.
5. Chill in the Refrigerator: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for the best texture.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Topping (Optional)

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir occasionally until the strawberries release their juices (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the cornstarch mixture, stir, and cook for another 2 minutes until thickened.
3. Let cool completely before spreading over the chilled cheesecake.

Serving Suggestions

🍓 Classic Style: Enjoy plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
🍫 Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
🍋 Citrus Zest: Garnish with lemon or orange zest for a fresh flavor boost.

Enjoy your homemade New York-Style Cheesecake—a rich and creamy slice of dessert perfection! 🍰✨