Description
A dense, creamy, and foolproof New York-style cheesecake with a graham cracker crust. This recipe prevents cracking through temperature control and cornstarch, resulting in a bakery-quality dessert that is rich yet spoon-soft.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 32 ounces (900g) full-fat block cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240g) full-fat sour cream
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) heavy cream
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons (15g) cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a food processor, pulse graham cracker crumbs until fine. Add melted butter, sugar, and salt; pulse until mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat room-temperature cream cheese on medium-low speed until completely smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes). Scrape down sides and bottom.
- Add sugar and cornstarch to the cream cheese. Mix on low until combined. Scrape bowl again.
- Add sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix on low until just combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Stop as soon as the egg is incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Pour batter over the crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Bake at 325°F for 1 hour and 15 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should jiggle slightly like Jell-O.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Remove from oven and let cool on the counter for another hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Run a knife around the edge to loosen before releasing the springform ring.
- Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Serve with toppings if desired.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to prevent lumps and cracking. Do not overmix the batter once eggs are added, as this incorporates air which causes cracks. The cheesecake must cool gradually in the turned-off oven to prevent thermal shock. It tastes best after chilling overnight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 16
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6
Keywords: New York Cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, no crack cheesecake, graham cracker crust, homemade dessert, baking recipe