Little in this world can match New York Cheesecake. While Oreo’s may come close, they don’t match the cream deliciousness of a slice of this fabulous dessert.
Growing up in a German household, cheesecake wasn’t on the menu. With five little women all watching our waistlines, it’s best this was never introduced. I first tried the dessert in my 30’s and ran to buy my first spring-form pan. Only made for special occasions, it was a treat I managed to perfect.
Every July 30th, dessert lovers across the country celebrate National Cheesecake Day! Whether you love baked or no-bake and topped with fruit or chocolate, cheesecake works great with any meal.
My most beloved variety is the rich and velvety New York-style Cheesecake. Known for it’s dense, creamy texture and tangy flavor, it’s the perfect way to celebrate this indulgent holiday. Unlike other cheesecake varieties, New York-style Cheesecake is baked and ultra-creamy thanks to a generous amount of cream cheese, eggs, and often sour cream. Typically made with a graham cracker crust, it’s baked slowly for a firm, yet silky finish.
If you have a little time today to create a mouth-watering dessert, try this. Lately, I’ve noticed that AI has given me some really good recipes. This is an unexpected benefit in our technological world.
🥄 Classic New York Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom with foil to prevent leaks.
- Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, flour, and lemon zest (if using). Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended.
- Assemble: Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Smooth the top.
- Bake for 55–70 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool: Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour. Then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve with fresh strawberries, berry compote, or simply as is!
💡 Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
- Always use room temperature ingredients to avoid lumps.
- Don’t overmix after adding eggs to prevent cracking.
- Bake in a water bath for the smoothest texture. (thank you AI)
Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner party or just treating yourself, National Cheesecake Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in one of the most wonderful desserts ever created. This New York-style cheesecake is rich, tangy, and worth every bite. Of course, if you are not in the mood to heat up your kitchen, the local Walmart often has mini-cheesecakes with slices of four different flavors.
Enjoy today and celebrate!!! It isn’t often desserts have their own day!! Especially desserts as wonderful as this! Enjoy!
More tomorrow.
