New York Cheese Cake

Craving a classic and decadent dessert that will wow your guests and tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than our delicious New York Cheesecake recipe. Creamy, rich, and with a perfectly baked graham cracker crust, this indulgent treat is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Follow along with our step-by-step guide to create a cheesecake that’s bound to impress!

**New York Cheesecake**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 32 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup sour cream
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tbsp vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Fresh berries, for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.
5. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
6. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until well combined.
7. Add the sour cream and mix until smooth.
8. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
9. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest until evenly distributed.
10. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
11. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water to create a water bath for the cheesecake.
12. Carefully transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
13. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
14. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
15. Once chilled, run a knife around the edges of the cheesecake before releasing it from the springform pan.
16. Garnish with fresh berries, if desired, before slicing and serving. Enjoy every creamy, luscious bite!

Cheesecake is a timeless dessert that brings joy to any occasion, whether it’s a special celebration or a cozy night in. The rich, velvety texture of our New York Cheesecake is perfectly complemented by the buttery graham cracker crust, creating a dessert that is simply irresistible. Serve this delightful treat to friends and family, and watch as they savor every decadent mouthful. Treat yourself to a slice of New York Cheesecake and experience a little slice of heaven right in your own home.