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Classic Creamy Cheesecake

Featured in Bake Something Special.

This rich cheesecake has a buttery base and a soft, silky filling. Baking in water ensures it’s perfectly creamy.
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Rose
Updated on Sat, 05 Apr 2025 14:33:07 GMT
A creamy cheesecake slice topped with shiny strawberries on a plate, with extra berries around. Pin it
A creamy cheesecake slice topped with shiny strawberries on a plate, with extra berries around. | lovelylifewithrose.com

I'm gonna tell you about my go-to New York Cheesecake that's velvety, rich and absolutely dreamy. Through countless tries, I've nailed this timeless sweet treat with its crunchy cookie bottom and indulgent filling.

Timeless Approach

Borrowed from the famous Junior's playbook. Sour cream, heavy cream create an incredible richness.

What Makes It Special

Incredibly dense and satisfying bite. Just one piece tackles your sweet tooth completely.

Better Base

Going with graham crackers makes life simpler. Gives that warm, classic taste everyone loves.

Must Have Ingredients

  • Cream Cheese: Use full-fat sitting at room temp
  • Heavy Cream: Gives that melt-in-mouth feel
  • Eggs: Warm eggs mix in way better
  • Graham Crackers: The ideal foundation
A sliced cheesecake topped with strawberry glaze and fresh strawberries sits on an ornate serving plate. Pin it
A sliced cheesecake topped with strawberry glaze and fresh strawberries sits on an ornate serving plate. | lovelylifewithrose.com

Safe Pan Prep

Cover springform with foil thoroughly. Stops water getting in for that flawless finish.

Perfect Crust

Combine sugar, butter, vanilla and crumbs. Push down firmly using the flat bottom of a cup.

Smooth Filling

Whip cheese until airy then drop in eggs. Mix in creams and vanilla until totally lump-free.

Water Bath Essential

Set inside bigger roasting container. Fill halfway with hot water for even cooking.

Cool Right

Switch oven off with door cracked open. Slow cooling stops the top from cracking.

A creamy cheesecake with a slice removed sits on a silver platter, accompanied by fresh strawberries in the background. Pin it
A creamy cheesecake with a slice removed sits on a silver platter, accompanied by fresh strawberries in the background. | lovelylifewithrose.com

Fresh Topping

Simmer strawberries with vanilla, sugar and lemon. Let it chill before putting on slices.

Store Smart

Stays good in fridge for five days if covered. Wrap it up after you grab a piece.

Freeze Option

Wrap in foil and plastic for up to three months. Let it thaw overnight in your fridge.

Serving Ideas

Try it plain, with sauce or fresh fruit. Maybe add whipped cream and crumbs on top.

Make It Yours

Try adding chocolate, swap for Oreo base, or go citrusy. You can change it up however you want.

A slice of creamy cheesecake with a golden top is served on a plate alongside fresh strawberries. Pin it
A slice of creamy cheesecake with a golden top is served on a plate alongside fresh strawberries. | lovelylifewithrose.com

Success Tips

Warm ingredients mix better together. Don't mix too much or you'll get air bubbles.

Perfect Results

Cook slowly and cool gradually for best outcome. Water bath is key for smooth texture.

Beautiful Look

Dress it up with flowers, fresh fruit or sugar dust. Swirls of cream and sprinkles look fun too.

Perfect Pairs

Tastes amazing with coffee, espresso or dessert wine. They cut through the richness nicely.

Finishing Touch

Use a warm knife between cuts for clean edges. Load up with berries and fresh cream.

A slice of creamy cheesecake topped with strawberries and a glossy strawberry glaze, served on a decorative plate. Pin it
A slice of creamy cheesecake topped with strawberries and a glossy strawberry glaze, served on a decorative plate. | lovelylifewithrose.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What does a water bath do?
It bakes the cheesecake gently and keeps the texture smooth by preventing it from cracking.
→ When is it baked through?
The middle should jiggle a little. The edges will set, and the center firms as it cools. No knife testing needed!
→ Why soften the ingredients?
Allow cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature so they mix more evenly, without uneven lumps.
→ How long does it last?
It stays good in the fridge for about 5 days. Cover tightly to keep it fresh between servings.
→ Why cool the cheesecake in steps?
Gradual cooling avoids cracks and helps lock in the creamy texture.

NY Style Cheesecake

Smooth, velvety cheesecake with a crumbly graham cracker base. Optional strawberry sauce for extra sweetness!

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
90 Minutes
Total Time
110 Minutes
By: Rose

Category: Sweet Treats

Difficulty: Difficult

Cuisine: American

Yield: 10 Servings (One 9-inch cheesecake)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter.
02 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers.
03 1/2 cup packed brown sugar.
04 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
05 32 ounces softened cream cheese.
06 1 cup white sugar.
07 1/4 cup sour cream.
08 3 large eggs, at room temperature.
09 3 tablespoons cornstarch.
10 3/4 cup heavy cream.
11 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
12 Optional topping:
13 1 pound fresh strawberries.
14 3/4 cup white sugar.
15 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
16 1/4 cup water.
17 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Instructions

Step 01

Set oven to 325°F. Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it and wrapping the outside tightly with aluminum foil.

Step 02

Combine the graham cracker crumbs, butter, vanilla, and brown sugar. Pack this mixture firmly at the base and edges of the pan.

Step 03

Whip the cream cheese till it’s smooth and airy. Slowly beat in sugar, eggs (one at a time), sour cream, cornstarch, vanilla, and cream.

Step 04

Place the pan in a roasting pan filled with hot water. Bake for about 85-90 minutes, or until the edges are firm while the center is slightly wobbly.

Step 05

Once the oven is turned off, leave the cheesecake inside for 10 minutes. Let it cool on the counter for another 10 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours.

Step 06

Simmer chopped strawberries, sugar, water, lemon, and vanilla for 10-15 minutes until syrupy and thick.

Notes

  1. It’s best to use ingredients that are not cold.
  2. A water bath ensures a creamy texture.
  3. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Tools You'll Need

  • Springform pan, 9-inch size.
  • Roasting pan for water bath.
  • Stand mixer or hand mixer.
  • Foil for wrapping the pan.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy like cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream.
  • Includes eggs.
  • Graham crackers contain wheat.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 639
  • Total Fat: 47 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 46 g
  • Protein: 8 g