Classic New York Cheesecake
Dense, creamy cheesecake on a buttery graham cracker crust — no cracks guaranteed
By RecipesQueen Kitchen • June 10, 2026
New York cheesecake is the gold standard — dense, ultra-creamy, with a velvety texture and that characteristic tang from cream cheese and sour cream.
The secret to a crack-free top: bake in a water bath, don't overmix the batter (which incorporates too much air), and cool slowly in the oven with the door cracked.
Make it a day ahead for the best texture.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tbsp melted butter
- 4 packages (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 5 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp flour
Instructions
- 1
Mix crumbs and butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 325°F for 10 minutes.
- 2
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined. Mix in sour cream and vanilla.
- 3
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low just until incorporated. Fold in flour.
- 4
Pour into crust. Wrap pan bottom in foil. Place in a larger pan with 1 inch of hot water.
- 5
Bake at 325°F for 60-65 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly.
- 6
Turn off oven. Crack door and let cool inside for 1 hour. Refrigerate 8 hours before slicing.
