Description

This Classic Baked New York Cheesecake recipe is a family-friendly, creamy, crack-free masterpiece, perfect for special occasions. It features a classic graham cracker crust and a rich, vanilla-infused cream cheese filling, baked in a water bath for a tender texture.

Ingredients

Scale

32 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
1.5 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup full-fat sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons sugar

Instructions

Prepare Crust: Combine 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs, 0.25 cup melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Press firmly into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden. Cool completely.
Make Filling Base: Beat 32 oz softened cream cheese with 1.5 cups sugar until smooth and lump-free, about 3 minutes, scraping the bowl often.
Gently Add Eggs And Cream: Add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Stir in 1 cup sour cream and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth; gently fold to release excess air if needed.
Assemble With Water Bath: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan halfway up the springform with hot water.
Bake Until Set: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 70-90 minutes, until edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly.
Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven, leave the door ajar for 1 hour. Remove from water bath and cool on a wire rack for 2-3 hours.
Chill Completely: Refrigerate the cooled cheesecake, covered, for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, for ideal texture.

Notes

For variations, add lemon zest or vanilla bean paste, or use shortbread or gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust. Fresh berries make an excellent topping. Use a water bath and gradual cooling to prevent cracks; ensure cream cheese is softened and avoid overmixing for a smooth texture. Low-carb and plant-based options are available by swapping ingredients.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 80 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking, Water Bath
Cuisine: American, New York

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 120 g)
Calories: 450 calories
Sugar: 35 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 8 g
Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: Classic, Baked, New York, Cheesecake, Dessert, Creamy, Crack-free, Family-friendly, Water bath, Vanilla