There’s something truly special about homemade cheesecake, and this Easy New York Cheesecake is a shining star in my dessert repertoire. I remember the first time I made it—they all loved it, and everyone was asking for seconds. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a rich and creamy delight that feels like a special occasion dessert. Plus, it’s surprisingly straightforward to whip up, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
This cheesecake boasts a velvety smooth texture and a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with fruit toppings or a drizzle of chocolate. It’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or as a comforting treat after a long day. Can you believe it takes only about an hour to bake, plus some chilling time, before you can dive into this creamy bliss?
Why you’ll love easy new york cheesecake
- Simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Rich, creamy texture that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Perfect for celebrations or a treat any day.
- Easy to make ahead and store.
- Impressively delicious, yet requires minimal fuss.
What ingredients do I need for easy new york cheesecake?
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Use any type of crust you prefer instead of graham cracker crumbs.
- For a lighter cheesecake, consider substituting reduced-fat cream cheese.
- If you’re dairy-sensitive, try non-dairy alternatives for cream cheese and sour cream.
How do I make easy new york cheesecake step-by-step?
To make this delicious cheesecake, start by preparing the crust and the filling. You’ll press the crust into a springform pan and then mix and bake the creamy cheesecake batter. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream and flour until just combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the springform pan.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Pro Tip: For a perfect, creamy texture, avoid overmixing once you’ve added the eggs, as this can create air bubbles that lead to cracks.
Look for a wobbly center that sets as it cools and a lightly golden top to signify it’s done.
How should I serve it?
Serve this cheesecake plain, or jazz it up with fruit toppings like strawberries or blueberries. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce adds a delightful touch, too. To make it visually appealing, slice the cheesecake into wedges and place them on dessert plates, garnishing with a sprig of mint or a dollop of whipped cream.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! This cheesecake stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap it well and it can last for about a month. To enjoy, simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. There’s no need to reheat it—this cheesecake is best served chilled.
How do I fix common issues?
If your cheesecake turns out dry, it may have baked too long; always check for a slight jiggle in the center. For a bland cheesecake, make sure you’re using quality ingredients for the cream cheese and vanilla, as they greatly impact flavor. If you notice cracks, try baking in a water bath next time to maintain moisture.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to experiment with flavors! You can add lemon zest for a citrus twist or mix in chocolate chips for a chocolate cheesecake. For an unforgettable flavor, swirl in fruit preserves before baking. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, including cooling and chilling, expect to invest about 5-6 hours, with 70-80 minutes of active prep.
Can I use different crust options?
Yes! Other options include Oreo cookies, vanilla wafers, or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free version.
What toppings work best?
Fresh fruit, whipped cream, chocolate ganache, or a berry compote are all fantastic choices to enhance your cheesecake experience.
Easy New York Cheesecake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream and flour until just combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the springform pan.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.