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a tall classic New York cheesecake on a white cake stand in a wide horizontal shot, one creamy slice removed, smooth golden top, on a festive table with greenery, soft natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Classic New York Cheesecake

A buttery graham crust paired with a dense and rich New York-style cheesecake and a vanilla finish.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tbsp butter melted
  • 32 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1.25 cups sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 2/3 cup sour cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Method
 

  1. Heat oven to 325F and press the crumbs mixed with butter into a springform pan.
  2. Beat cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth and lump-free.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice.
  4. Pour over the crust and bake 65-70 minutes until the edges set and center barely jiggles.
  5. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside with the door cracked for an hour.
  6. Chill at least 6 hours, ideally overnight, before slicing.

Notes

A water bath helps prevent cracks if you have the time.