New York Cheesecake (no water bath)

Introduction

New York cheesecake is the ultimate classic dessert that boasts a rich, dense, and creamy texture with a subtle tangy flavor. Unlike other cheesecakes, the New York version uses more cream cheese and eggs, giving it a luxurious, velvety mouthfeel. This recipe simplifies the baking process by skipping the traditional water bath method, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. By following this detailed guide, you’ll achieve a smooth, crack-free cheesecake with minimal effort, creating a showstopping dessert that will impress your family and friends.

Overview of the Recipe

This no-water-bath New York cheesecake features a simple graham cracker crust and a rich cream cheese filling flavored with vanilla and a hint of lemon. Baking it without a water bath reduces preparation time and eliminates the risk of water leaking into the cheesecake. The recipe walks you through step-by-step instructions to ensure perfect results, from preparing the crust to chilling the final dessert.

History and Origin

Cheesecake has a long history, dating back to ancient Greece, where it was made with simple ingredients like cheese, honey, and wheat. Over time, it spread across Europe, evolving into different styles. The New York cheesecake, as we know it today, originated in the early 20th century in New York City. Restaurants like Lindy’s and Junior’s popularized this dense, creamy version by using cream cheese as the main ingredient instead of cottage cheese or ricotta. New York cheesecake became a symbol of indulgence, loved for its smooth texture and unmistakable flavor.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)

Optional Toppings:

  • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Whipped cream
  • Lemon zest or mint leaves for garnish
PREPARATION