Description

Take your dessert game to legendary heights with this rich, dense, and ultra-creamy New York Style Cheesecake. It’s the ultimate indulgence with a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth vanilla-scented filling, and a silky tang from sour cream. Whether you need a showstopper for the holidays or a perfect make-ahead treat for any gathering, this easy cheesecake recipe checks every box. A true classic that belongs on every dessert table—ideal for anyone searching for quick dessert ideas, party-ready sweets, or the best cheesecake recipe with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

4 packages cream cheese, 8 oz each, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup sour cream

4 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 tablespoon lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Wrap the outside of a springform pan with foil and lightly grease the inside.

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.

3. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until fluffy.

4. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice until just combined.

5. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed. Do not overmix.

6. Pour batter into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Place the springform pan into a larger baking pan. Fill the outer pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan.

8. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes. The edges should be set and the center slightly jiggly.

9. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

10. Remove and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps.

Don’t skip the water bath—it helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracking.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 420
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 125mg