New York Cheesecake

New York Cheesecake is a classic dessert that’s rich, creamy, and utterly delicious. This recipe is perfect for any special occasion, but it’s also simple enough to make any day of the week. The key to a perfect New York Cheesecake is using high-quality ingredients and taking your time to make sure everything is just right. Let’s get started!

Ingredients: For the crust:

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

For the filling:

• 32 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup sour cream, at room temperature
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. To make the crust, in a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
3. To make the filling, in a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the sugar and beat until well combined, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract and beat until just combined.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the flour mixture to the cream cheese mixture and beat until just combined.
5. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
6. Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 30 minutes. Then remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
7. Once the cheesecake is completely cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. To serve, run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the pan. Remove the sides of the pan and slice the cheesecake into wedges.
9. Serve the cheesecake plain or with your favorite topping, such as fresh berries or whipped cream.

Tips:

1. Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are all at room temperature before you start making the filling. This will help ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake.
2. Don’t overmix the batter: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can cause the cheesecake to crack and become dense.
3. Bake the cheesecake in a water bath: To prevent cracks in the cheesecake, bake it in a water bath. Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
4. Let the cheesecake cool gradually: Once the cheesecake is done baking, turn off the oven and let it cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This will help prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
5. Chill the cheesecake overnight: To ensure the cheesecake is firm and creamy, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. 6. Use a high-quality pan: Invest in a good quality, heavy-duty springform pan to ensure that your cheesecake bakes evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
   7. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adding a small amount of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the batter can help balance the richness of the cheesecake and add a subtle citrus flavor.
   8. Decorate with fresh fruit or whipped cream: New York Cheesecake is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with some fresh fruit or whipped cream on top. Try topping it with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, or a dollop of whipped cream.
   9. Allow the cheesecake to come to room temperature before serving: Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature. This will help enhance the flavor and texture of the cheesecake.

   New York Cheesecake is a classic dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. With its rich, creamy texture and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s the perfect dessert for any special occasion. Just be sure to take your time and follow the recipe closely, and you’ll have a delicious cheesecake that’s sure to be a hit!