New York Style Cheesecake Recipe

Yesterday started with a spilled cup of milk, a missing shoe, and a text from school reminding me about a themed snack day I absolutely forgot. By noon, I was already dreaming about dessert, and that is exactly how this New York Style Cheesecake recipe ended up on my counter again. When life feels loud, messy, and a little sticky, baking this New York Style Cheesecake recipe feels like hitting pause. This New York Style Cheesecake recipe has become my go-to comfort bake when I need something reliable, creamy, and guaranteed to impress without extra chaos.

I am Sarah, a mom who loves good food, a decent glass of wine, and recipes that do not require perfection. This New York Style Cheesecake recipe fits perfectly into real life. It is rich without being fussy, classic without being boring, and forgiving enough to survive interruptions like “Mom, where are my socks?” or “Why is the dog licking the counter?”

If you have ever wanted a bakery-style cheesecake without leaving the house, this New York Style Cheesecake recipe is for you.

New York Style Cheesecake Recipe

Why You Will Love This New York Style Cheesecake Recipe

This New York Style Cheesecake recipe checks all the boxes. It is thick, creamy, and has that signature dense texture people expect from a classic cheesecake recipe. It works beautifully as a New Year’s cheesecake, a holiday cheesecake recipe, or even a random Tuesday night reward.

It is also a make-ahead cheesecake, which is code for sanity-saving. You can bake it the day before, let it chill overnight, and serve it when you are ready. No rushing, no last-minute stress. It is truly a crowd-pleasing dessert and easily qualifies as an elegant party dessert without needing fancy decorations.

Ingredients for New York Style Cheesecake Recipe

  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Granulated sugar
  • Unsalted butter, melted
  • Full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • Sour cream
  • Heavy cream
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt

This ingredient list is what makes this creamy baked cheesecake taste like something straight from a bakery case. Using full-fat dairy is key for that authentic New York style cheesecake texture.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Springform pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil

Nothing fancy here. This New York Style Cheesecake recipe is about technique, not gadgets.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1:

Prepare the crust,mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar, then press firmly into the bottom of a lined springform pan.

Step 2:

Make the filling,beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in sugar, sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt until creamy.

Step 3:

Add the eggs,mix on low speed just until combined to keep the batter silky and prevent cracking.

Step 4:

Bake the cheesecake,pour filling over crust and bake until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.

Step 5:

Cool and chill,let the cheesecake cool gradually, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

This method delivers a bakery-style cheesecake every single time.

What to Serve With

This New York Style Cheesecake recipe pairs beautifully with festive drinks, especially during the holidays. I love serving it alongside a Candy Cane Mojito Recipe for a minty contrast, a Cranberry Thyme Margarita Recipe for something tart and fresh, or a cozy glass of Classic Eggnog when it doubles as a New Year’s Eve dessert.

Mom Style Tips for Cheesecake Success

If your cream cheese is cold, your batter will be lumpy. Let it sit out longer than you think. If you forget sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works in a pinch. For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe between cuts. And if the top cracks, remember this New York Style Cheesecake recipe still tastes incredible. A little whipped cream covers everything, including mom guilt.

FAQ

Can I make this New York Style Cheesecake recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead cheesecake. It actually tastes better after chilling overnight.

Is this a classic cheesecake recipe or more modern?

This is a true classic cheesecake recipe inspired by New York style cheesecake traditions.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to two months.

What makes this a New York style cheesecake?

The use of cream cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream creates that dense, creamy baked cheesecake texture people love.

A Slice of Calm at the End of the Day

This New York Style Cheesecake recipe is more than dessert in my house. It is a reminder that even when the day goes sideways, something steady and sweet can come out of it. Whether you serve it as a New Year’s cheesecake, a holiday cheesecake recipe, or a simple family treat, this New York Style Cheesecake recipe delivers comfort, confidence, and just a little bakery magic.

New York Style Cheesecake Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: DessertDifficulty: Easy
Servings

12

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

1

hour 
Calories

480

kcal
Total time

1

hour 

20

minutes

Discover the ultimate New York Style Cheesecake recipe – rich, creamy, make-ahead, and perfect for holidays, parties, or stress baking with confidence.

Ingredients

  • Crust
    1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
    1/4 cup granulated sugar
    6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
    Filling
    32 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
    1 cup granulated sugar
    3/4 cup sour cream
    1/2 cup heavy cream
    4 large eggs, room temperature
    2 tsp vanilla extract
    1 tbsp lemon juice
    1/4 tsp salt

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 325°F. Mix crust ingredients and press into a springform pan.
  • Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt.
  • Mix in eggs one at a time on low speed until just combined.
  • Pour filling over crust and bake for 55 to 65 minutes until edges are set.
  • Cool completely, then refrigerate at least 4 hours before slicing.

Notes

  • Use full-fat dairy for best texture.
    Do not overmix once eggs are added to prevent cracks.
    Chill overnight for the cleanest slices and best flavor.
    Freezes well for up to 2 months.
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Sarah

My name is Sarah. The short version about the Wine and Mommy Time mommy: I have a husband, two kids, and an 80 pound Pitbull who thinks he’s a lap dog.