Classic New York Cheesecake Made Easy

Introduction

Enjoy a rich, dense, and ultra-creamy New York‑style cheesecake—with a buttery graham cracker crust and tangy filling. This beginner‑friendly recipe results in a stunning, crack‑free cake perfect for any special occasion.(Butternut Bakery)

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1½ cups (170 g) graham cracker crumbs
4 Tbsp (55 g) unsalted butter, melted
1 Tbsp granulated sugar (optional)(YouTube)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

24 oz (≈680 g) full‑fat cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
3 Tbsp (30 g) cornstarch or flour(YouTube)
5 large eggs (plus 1 egg yolk), room temperature(YouTube)
1½ tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt (optional)
1 cup (≈250 g) sour cream, room temperature
2 tsp lemon juice (for brightness)(Brown Eyed Baker)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Combine graham crumbs, melted butter (and sugar if using). Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan. Chill in the fridge while preparing the filling.(YouTube, Brown Eyed Baker)

Step 2: Make the Filling

Beat cream cheese and sugar on low until smooth.
Add cornstarch, eggs, egg yolk, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt. Mix gently and slowly—avoid whipping in air.(Brown Eyed Baker, Butternut Bakery)
Fold in sour cream until mixture is silky and uniform.(Brown Eyed Baker, YouTube, Butternut Bakery)

Step 3: Bake (with or without water bath)

Water bath method (preferred for crack-free top):

Wrap the pan in foil and place in a larger roasting pan. Add hot water to come halfway up sides of cake pan.
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 1 hour or until edges are set and center jiggles slightly.(YouTube, Butternut Bakery)

No water bath method:

Bake as above without water bath, but maintain low, slow baking temperature to prevent cracking.(Butternut Bakery)

Step 4: Cool Gradually

Turn the oven off; crack the door open and let the cheesecake cool in place for 1 hour to avoid temperature shock.
Remove from oven and let sit at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 6 hours or overnight. This slow cooling ensures a silky, crack‑free surface.(Butternut Bakery)

💡 Expert Tips

Use full-fat cream cheese and room-temperature dairy to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.(Epicurious, Butternut Bakery)
Mix on low speed to avoid air bubbles which can cause cracks.(Butternut Bakery)
Choose high-quality ingredients, and if cracks do appear, top with fruit compote, sour cream topping, or caramel.(Epicurious)