THE BEST CHEESECAKE RECIPE (NEW YORK STYLE)

I’m excited to tell you that New York Classic Cheesecake is the best dessert in the world. Don’t worry, it’s really easy to make. I bet you’ve never tried this recipe before. It’s super creamy and so delicious that you won’t need any other cheesecake recipe.

THE JOURNEY TO THE PERFECT CHEESECAKE RECIPE

When I was in my first year of college, I totally fell in love with cheesecake. Our cafeteria had this huge dessert section with all kinds of cheesecake flavors, and you could pick one slice as part of your meal. I got so hooked on cheesecake that one time I actually had five slices for a meal. Yep, it wasn’t the healthiest choice, and I did end up gaining a bit of weight because of it.

After that, I had to stay away from cheesecake for a few years. But this year, I started really wanting a delicious slice of cheesecake again. Strangely, I couldn’t find any that I really liked, even after trying all the famous places like The Cheesecake Factory. Most of the cheesecakes I tried were dry, eggy, and dense, and that’s just not what I was looking for. I wanted a cheesecake that was super creamy and delicious.

So, I decided to create my own cheesecake recipe. After a few attempts, I finally nailed it. The first bite blew me away—I couldn’t believe how good it was. I shared some slices with my friends, and they were just as impressed. Here are some of the messages they sent me:

“Wow, this cheesecake is amazing! It practically melts in my mouth. Perfection!!!!”

“I’d do anything for this cheesecake. It’s the best I’ve ever had. Seriously.”

“I never understood that scene in Friends where they eat cheesecake off the floor. But now I get it after trying yours.

let’s dive in!

WHY THIS CHEESECAKE RECIPE IS THE BEST?

Let me tell you why this cheesecake is truly the best you’ll ever eat or make:

• Making the cheesecake recipe is all about embracing simplicity. There is no need for complicated techniques or fancy ingredients. Just a straightforward approach with simple steps and a dash of patience. This isn’t about making things difficult—it’s about savoring the journey to create something truly delicious.

• Perfectly Balanced. When it comes to flavor, this cheesecake hits all the right notes. The cream cheese flavor shines through without overpowering your taste buds. It’s not too sweet, yet it has a hint of sourness that adds a refreshing twist. This balance of flavors creates a perfect harmony that’s simply irresistible.

• Indulgent Texture. What truly sets this cheesecake apart is its indulgent texture. It’s not dry or dense like other recipes. Instead, it’s wonderfully creamy and rich, melting in your mouth with every bite. And trust me, the pictures don’t do it justice—you have to taste it to believe it. This cheesecake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience.

THE BEST CHEESECAKE RECIPE: HOW TO MAKE IT

Here’s how you can get this perfect cheesecake:

1. HIGH-QUALITY FULL-FAT FOR BEST CHEESECAKE

When it comes to cooking and baking, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. Opting for full-fat options like cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, and sour cream can elevate your dishes to new heights.

Using high quality ingredients not only enhances the flavor and texture of your creations but also ensures optimal results. Whether you’re whipping up a decadent cheesecake or a creamy pasta sauce, full-fat options like Philadelphia cream cheese and Great Value heavy whipping cream deliver superior taste and consistency.

2. USE ROOM TEMPERATURE INGREDIENTS

When it comes to baking, bringing your ingredients to room temperature can make a significant difference in the outcome of your recipe. Before you begin mixing your batter or dough, it’s important to place all your ingredients out in the kitchen for at least 1-2 hours. This step is especially crucial for ingredients like cream cheese, which can greatly impact the texture and consistency of your final product.

3. TIGHTLY PACK & PRE-BAKE CRUST

When preparing a cheesecake, one crucial step is to pack the graham cracker crust into the pan tightly before pre-baking. Spending a few extra minutes ensuring the crust is firmly pressed into the bottom of the pan can make a significant difference in the final result. This helps create a solid foundation for the cheesecake and prevents the crust from crumbling when serving.

Pre-baking the crust for a short period before filling it with batter is another essential step in the cheesecake-making process. This brief bake helps the crust develop a crispy texture, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to your cheesecake. The result is a perfectly balanced dessert with a deliciously firm crust that complements the creamy filling.

4. MIX CREAM CHEESE AND SUGAR WELL

Thoroughly mixing the cream cheese and sugar sets the foundation for a smooth and creamy cheesecake. This step ensures that every bite is perfectly balanced with sweetness and richness. By taking the time to mix the ingredients properly, you’ll create a cheesecake with a velvety texture that melts in your mouth. Don’t rush this process—it’s worth the extra effort for a cheesecake that’s truly divine.

5. AVOID OVER-WHISKING EGGS & CREAMS

We want our cheesecake batter to be as creamy as possible to achieve that decadent texture we all love. By avoiding over-whisking, we can prevent unnecessary air from being incorporated into the batter, resulting in a cheesecake that is silky and smooth. Remember, it’s better to whisk gently and take your time to ensure a perfect outcome. Your patience will be rewarded with a cheesecake that is truly divine.

6. LOW TEMP WATER-BATH BAKING

Baking a perfect cheesecake involves a delicate process, especially when it comes to achieving that coveted creamy texture. To attain this, it’s essential to bake your creation in a water-bath at a low temperature, typically around 325°F. This method ensures that the cheesecake cooks slowly and evenly, preventing it from becoming too dry or overcooked. The water-bath also helps maintain a consistent temperature throughout the baking process, reducing the risk of sudden changes that could lead to cracks in the cheesecake’s surface. Additionally, covering the bottom and edges of your pan tightly with aluminum foil prevents any water from leaking into the cheesecake while it bakes.

Moreover, it’s crucial to avoid opening the oven door while the cheesecake is baking. Doing so can cause a sudden drop or rise in temperature, which may result in an unevenly baked dessert. The secret lies in under baking the cheesecake slightly—removing it from the oven when the edges are set but the middle still appears jiggly. This ensures a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Overbaking can lead to a denser, eggier consistency, so it’s essential to monitor the baking process closely. By following these steps and techniques, you can achieve a perfectly baked cheesecake every time, delighting yourself and your guests alike.

7. Cooling Your Cheesecake: A Lesson in Patience

You’ve just finished baking your cheesecake, and the aroma fills the kitchen, tempting you to dive in right away. But hold on! Patience is key here. We all know it’s hard to wait, but trust me, it’s worth it. The next step is crucial: cooling the cheesecake. First, let it cool at room temperature to avoid any sudden changes. Then, into the fridge it goes, to spend the overnight hours chilling. This slow process is critical for ensuring your cheesecake sets perfectly, achieving that heavenly, creamy texture we all love.

As tempting as it may be to sneak a slice right after it’s out of the oven, remember the name of the game: patience. Rushing this step could lead to disappointment. Instead, embrace the anticipation. Waiting overnight allows the flavors to meld, and the cheesecake to reach its full potential. So, resist the urge to peek into the fridge, and let time work its magic. Trust me, when you finally take that first bite, you’ll know it was worth the wait.

8. DECORATE WITH WHIPPED CREAM

Adds a delightful touch to any dessert, including a luscious cheesecake. The process is simple yet versatile, allowing you to express your creativity in various ways. Typically, whipped cream serves as the perfect canvas for experimentation. You can opt for the classic simplicity of unsweetened whipped cream, or you may indulge in adding a hint of sweetness with a touch of sugar. Additionally, the possibilities extend beyond sweetness, as you can explore alternative options like tangy sour cream or vibrant jams for a burst of flavor.

9. ENJOY THE BEST CHEESECAKE EVER

Don’t try to count calories or limit yourself. Life is very short. It’s worth it.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT OTHER OPTIONS CAN I USE FOR CHEESECAKE CRUST BESIDES GRAHAM CRACKERS?

Graham crackers are a prominent crust flavor, but if they’re not in your country, try finding wheat digestive biscuits! They taste the same. If you can’t even find them, use any plain packaged biscuits that you like to taste.

HOW DO I CHECK IF MY CHEESECAKE IS BAKED THROUGH?

Here’s what I recommend:

• Do not open the oven for 70 minutes. In the meantime, just look out the window to see what the cheesecake looks like. It should be fluffy at the edges but visible in the middle.

• Within 70–75 minutes, you can quickly open the oven door and gently shake the cheesecake. It should be strong at the edges but light enough in the middle. You can also lightly touch the center of the cheesecake; it should feel strong and bouncy. Close the oven door quickly! 

• For extra creamy cheesecake, take it out of the oven at 75 minutes. For a firmer cheesecake, wait 80 minutes.

WHY DID MY CHEESECAKE CRUST BECOME SOGGY?

Chances are, the water has leaked into your pan from a water bath. Here are 2 ways to prevent it:

1. Use a good-quality springform pan that doesn’t drip. I like this.
2. Wrap the outer part of the pan firmly in aluminum foil for double protection. I take three large sheets and overlap them in different directions to make sure no water goes in.