If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and decadently delicious, then look no further than this classic New York Cheesecake. It’s the epitome of indulgence, featuring a silky smooth filling with a slight tang from the sour cream, all nestled in a buttery crust. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this cheesecake is bound to be a hit. And the best part? It's easier to make than you might think!

For me, cheesecake has always been more than just a dessert – it’s a family tradition. Growing up, my grandma absolutely adored it, and our family has a running joke that she could easily eat a whole cheesecake by herself if she had the chance. Her love for cheesecake rubbed off on me, and over the years, I’ve enjoyed trying different variations of this classic treat. But there’s something about the creamy richness of a New York-style cheesecake that stands out above the rest. It’s truly the best of the best!

So, whether you’re looking to indulge in this classic or make a new family tradition of your own, here’s the best cheesecake recipe that’s sure to win over anyone who loves this timeless dessert.

Prep Time: 20 minutes 

Cook Time: 2 hours 

Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes 

Servings: 12 

Ingredients:

 32 ounces cream cheese (4 packages), room temperature 

 5 large eggs, room temperature 

2 cups sour cream, room temperature 

 8 tablespoons butter, room temperature 

 1 1/2 cups sugar 

2 tablespoons cornstarch 

2 vanilla beans (or 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract) 

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Start by wrapping two layers of aluminum foil tightly around the outside of a 10-inch springform pan, covering both the bottom and sides. This step ensures the cheesecake remains moisture-free and prevents leaks. Generously butter the inside of the pan to make it easier to remove the cheesecake later.
2. Preheat your oven to 300º F. While it’s heating up, you can move on to making the cheesecake batter.
3. Using an electric mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This is the base of your rich cheesecake filling, so make sure it’s well-blended.
   
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The eggs will give the cheesecake its structure and texture, so this step is crucial for a smooth batter.
   
5. Add the sour cream and mix until everything is smooth and blended. This adds richness and a slight tanginess to the cheesecake, making it more irresistible.
   
6. Add the sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, and fresh lemon juice. Beat the mixture for about 2 minutes until smooth. The cornstarch will help give the cheesecake its perfect consistency, while the vanilla and lemon juice bring out all the right flavors.
   
7. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan. Now, place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan that’s big enough to avoid the sides touching the pan. Carefully pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Be cautious not to splash any water onto the cake itself.
   
8. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the top is lightly browned. If you're using a convection oven, you may need to adjust the time slightly, so keep an eye on it. When shaken, the cheesecake should have a slight wobble but should not be too jiggly in the center.
   
9. Once baked, carefully remove the cheesecake from the water bath and remove the foil. Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature. This will help it set properly.
   
10. Once the cheesecake is cool, cover it and refrigerate it until thoroughly chilled. Ideally, it should be left overnight. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
    
11. After the cheesecake has been properly chilled, remove it from the springform pan. For a decadent twist, you can serve it plain or get creative with toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or even caramel sauce.
    

This cheesecake holds a special place in my heart, and I’m sure it’ll quickly become a favorite of yours as well. There’s something so comforting about making this decadent, creamy dessert—it’s not just about the result but also the memories created while baking it. Whether you share it with loved ones or indulge in it all by yourself (no judgment here!), this New York Cheesecake will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect blend of indulgence and tradition; no matter how many times I make it, it always feels like something special.

The best part? Cheesecake is one of those timeless desserts that everyone seems to have a personal connection to. Maybe it’s a memory of baking with grandma, like mine, or a family tradition of sharing a slice after dinner. So, don’t be afraid to comment on how your cheesecake turned out! I'd love to hear about your version if you added a creative twist or followed the recipe to the letter. The beauty of baking is in the little personal touches that make each dish unique. It’s always fun to read about how people enjoy this classic treat.

Enjoy every bite, and happy baking! 🍰