Ultra-Creamy, Rich, and Perfectly Baked — A Bakery-Worthy Dessert at Home

If you're looking for the ultimate dessert that’s creamy, indulgent, and guaranteed to impress, this New York-Style Cheesecake is it. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a thick, luscious filling, this classic cheesecake has just the right amount of tang, sweetness, and creaminess. It's the kind of dessert that turns a regular day into a celebration.

Whether you're making it for a holiday, dinner party, or just to treat yourself, this foolproof recipe delivers bakery-quality results every time.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake

• Dense yet smooth and creamy — true to classic New York style
• No water bath needed (optional tips to prevent cracks)
• Perfect make-ahead dessert
• Freezes beautifully

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🧀 Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 and ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 and ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

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🥣 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until it resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to flatten evenly.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add sugar and beat until well combined.
3. Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and flour.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated — don’t overmix.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
3. Optional: Wrap the bottom of the pan in foil and bake in a water bath to reduce cracking.
4. Bake at 325°F for 55–70 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly when shaken.
5. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the pan and remove the springform ring.
4. Slice and serve plain or with fruit topping, whipped cream, or chocolate drizzle.

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🍓 Optional Topping Ideas

• Fresh berries and berry compote
• Lemon curd
• Caramel sauce
• Chocolate ganache
• Whipped cream and shaved white chocolate

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🍴 Pro Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients for the smoothest texture.
• Don’t overmix after adding eggs — this can cause cracking.
• Chill overnight for best results and flavor.
• To slice cleanly, dip your knife in hot water and wipe between cuts.

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🧾 Nutrition Info (per slice, serves 12)

• Calories: 480
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 19g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Sugar: 24g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 310mg

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✨ From Me to Your Site

This New York-Style Cheesecake is the dessert of dreams — rich, decadent, and silky smooth with just the right touch of tang. It's a showstopper that never fails to wow, yet it's simple enough for any home baker to master.

Encourage your readers to make this cheesecake their own by playing with different crusts (like Oreo or gingersnap) and toppings. It’s a blank canvas for creativity — and the perfect sweet ending to any occasion.