11 new york cheesecakes
Classic New York Cheesecake
This is the definitive version of the iconic dessert known for its dense, creamy texture and rich flavor. It features a thick graham cracker crust that provides a crunchy contrast to the velvety cream cheese filling. Perfect for any special occasion, this cheesecake stands tall and proud with a beautiful golden top that captures the essence of a New York deli classic.
Ingredients
- ◆2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ◆1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- ◆1/4 cup granulated sugar
- ◆4 packages (8oz each) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- ◆1/2 cup sour cream
- ◆2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ◆5 large eggs, room temperature
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and grease the sides of a 9-inch springform pan with butter.
- Step 2
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand.
- Step 3
3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and 1 inch up the sides of the prepared pan, then bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
- Step 4
4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 1/4 cups sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy.
- Step 5
5. Blend in the sour cream and vanilla extract, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to avoid lumps.
- Step 6
6. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until the yellow disappears.
- Step 7
7. Pour the batter into the crust and bake for 60 to 70 minutes or until the center is almost set but still has a slight jiggle.
- Step 8
8. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door cracked open for one hour to prevent cracking.
- Step 9
9. Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight before slicing.
Strawberry Swirl New York Cheesecake
This elegant variation adds a vibrant burst of fruit flavor to the traditional heavy cream base using a homemade strawberry reduction. The bright red sauce is swirled into the batter to create a beautiful marbled effect that makes every slice unique. It is the perfect refreshing dessert for summer gatherings or spring brunches where you want a pop of color.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ◆6 tablespoons melted butter
- ◆32 oz cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 cup granulated sugar
- ◆1 cup sour cream
- ◆1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ◆4 large eggs
- ◆1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- ◆2 tablespoons granulated sugar for the sauce
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- Step 2
2. Mix crumbs and butter, press into the pan, and bake for 8 minutes before setting aside to cool.
- Step 3
3. In a small saucepan, simmer the strawberry puree with 2 tablespoons of sugar over medium heat until reduced by half, then let it cool completely.
- Step 4
4. Beat cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until light and airy, then add sour cream and vanilla.
- Step 5
5. Add eggs one by one on low speed, ensuring you do not over-mix the batter which can cause air bubbles.
- Step 6
6. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust and drop small spoonfuls of the strawberry reduction on top.
- Step 7
7. Use a wooden skewer or a thin knife to swirl the strawberry sauce into the batter in a decorative pattern.
- Step 8
8. Bake for 75 minutes, then perform the 'oven cooling' method by cracking the door for 60 minutes before chilling.
- Step 9
9. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours to allow the strawberry flavor to infuse deeply into the cake.
Chocolate Marble New York Cheesecake
Indulge in the best of both worlds with this decadent combination of rich dark chocolate and tangy New York style cheesecake. The cocoa-infused batter is layered with the original mixture to create a stunning visual contrast and a complex flavor profile. This recipe is a favorite for chocolate lovers who appreciate a sophisticated, less-sweet dessert option.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups chocolate wafer crumbs
- ◆5 tablespoons melted butter
- ◆4 packages cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 1/4 cups sugar
- ◆1 cup sour cream
- ◆2 teaspoons vanilla
- ◆4 eggs
- ◆4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 F and wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan in double layers of heavy-duty foil.
- Step 2
2. Combine chocolate crumbs and butter, press into the pan, and bake for 10 minutes.
- Step 3
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy, then incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Step 4
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Step 5
5. Remove 2 cups of the batter and stir in the melted chocolate until the color is uniform.
- Step 6
6. Alternate pouring scoops of plain batter and chocolate batter into the pan, then swirl gently with a knife.
- Step 7
7. Place the pan in a large roasting pan filled with 1 inch of hot water to create a water bath.
- Step 8
8. Bake for 70 to 80 minutes, then cool gradually in the oven before refrigerating overnight.
- Step 9
9. Serve chilled, perhaps with a drizzle of chocolate ganache for extra decadence.
Pumpkin Spice New York Cheesecake
Celebrate the autumn season with a cheesecake that incorporates real pumpkin puree and a warm blend of traditional spices. This version maintains the signature New York density while offering the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. It is an excellent alternative to pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving or any fall celebration.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
- ◆4 tablespoons melted butter
- ◆24 oz cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 cup sugar
- ◆1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ◆1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ◆1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- ◆1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- ◆3 eggs
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 F and prepare your springform pan with grease or parchment paper.
- Step 2
2. Mix gingersnap crumbs and butter, press into the pan, and bake for 10 minutes.
- Step 3
3. Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then stir in the pumpkin puree and all the spices.
- Step 4
4. Add eggs one at a time on low speed, being careful not to overbeat the batter.
- Step 5
5. Pour the orange-hued batter into the crust and smooth the surface.
- Step 6
6. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes until the edges are firm but the center still moves slightly.
- Step 7
7. Let the cake cool at room temperature for an hour, then move to the refrigerator.
- Step 8
8. Chill for at least 6 hours to allow the pumpkin and spice flavors to meld together.
- Step 9
9. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving to guests.
Lemon Zest New York Cheesecake
Brighten up your dessert table with this zesty and refreshing take on the classic New York recipe. The addition of fresh lemon juice and finely grated zest cuts through the richness of the cream cheese for a balanced, citrusy finish. It is light enough for a post-dinner treat while remaining satisfyingly creamy and thick.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ◆6 tablespoons melted butter
- ◆32 oz cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 1/4 cups sugar
- ◆1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- ◆2 tablespoons lemon zest
- ◆1/2 cup sour cream
- ◆4 eggs
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan.
- Step 2
2. Mix the crumbs and butter, press into the bottom of the pan, and bake for 10 minutes.
- Step 3
3. Beat the cream cheese and sugar until very smooth, then add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and sour cream.
- Step 4
4. Mix in the eggs one at a time on low speed until just incorporated.
- Step 5
5. Pour the batter into the crust and bake for 65 to 70 minutes.
- Step 6
6. Use the oven-cooling method (turn off heat, crack door) for 60 minutes to ensure a crack-free top.
- Step 7
7. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 8 hours before serving.
- Step 8
8. Garnish with thin lemon slices or a bit of lemon curd for an extra citrus punch.
- Step 9
9. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Caramel Pecan New York Cheesecake
This indulgent cheesecake features a buttery pecan crust and a rich caramel topping that flows over the sides of the dense filling. Inspired by the flavors of the South, it combines the crunch of toasted nuts with the silkiness of New York style cream cheese. It is a show-stopping dessert that is guaranteed to impress at any dinner party.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups crushed pecans
- ◆1/4 cup brown sugar
- ◆4 tablespoons melted butter
- ◆32 oz cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 cup sugar
- ◆1 teaspoon vanilla
- ◆4 eggs
- ◆1/2 cup caramel sauce for topping
- ◆1/2 cup chopped pecans for topping
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 F and grease a springform pan.
- Step 2
2. Combine crushed pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter; press into the pan and bake for 12 minutes.
- Step 3
3. Beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until light, then add vanilla extract.
- Step 4
4. Add eggs one by one on low speed, mixing only until combined.
- Step 5
5. Pour the batter over the pecan crust and bake for 70 minutes.
- Step 6
6. Let the cheesecake cool completely in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours.
- Step 7
7. Once chilled, pour the caramel sauce over the top of the cake.
- Step 8
8. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the caramel layer.
- Step 9
9. Serve at room temperature for the best caramel consistency, or chilled for a firmer bite.
Blueberry Compote New York Cheesecake
This recipe pairs a traditional, heavy New York base with a luscious, deep purple blueberry compote topping. The tartness of the berries perfectly complements the sweet creaminess of the cake, creating a sophisticated flavor balance. It is a beautiful choice for summer when fresh blueberries are at their peak of sweetness.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ◆6 tablespoons butter, melted
- ◆32 oz cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 1/4 cups sugar
- ◆1/2 cup sour cream
- ◆4 eggs
- ◆2 cups fresh blueberries
- ◆1/4 cup sugar for compote
- ◆1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 F and prepare your springform pan.
- Step 2
2. Create the crust with crumbs and butter, bake for 10 minutes, and let cool.
- Step 3
3. Beat cream cheese and 1 1/4 cups sugar, then add sour cream and eggs individually.
- Step 4
4. Bake the cheesecake for 70 minutes and cool in the oven for an hour before chilling overnight.
- Step 5
5. In a small pot, combine blueberries, 1/4 cup sugar, and lemon juice.
- Step 6
6. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the berries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Step 7
7. Let the blueberry compote cool completely before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.
- Step 8
8. Slice carefully with a warm knife to get clean edges through the fruit.
- Step 9
9. Garnish with a few fresh berries on top for a professional look.
White Chocolate Raspberry New York Cheesecake
This luxurious dessert features smooth white chocolate melted directly into the cheesecake batter, paired with tart raspberry swirls. The combination of the sweet, buttery white chocolate and the acidic berries creates a gourmet experience. It is a popular choice for Valentine's Day or formal celebrations due to its delicate appearance.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- ◆5 tablespoons melted butter
- ◆32 oz cream cheese, softened
- ◆3/4 cup sugar
- ◆6 oz white chocolate, melted and cooled
- ◆1/2 cup sour cream
- ◆4 eggs
- ◆1/4 cup raspberry preserves
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 F and wrap your springform pan in foil for a water bath.
- Step 2
2. Press cookie crumbs and butter into the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- Step 3
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar, then stir in the melted white chocolate and sour cream.
- Step 4
4. Incorporate the eggs one by one on low speed.
- Step 5
5. Pour the batter into the crust and drop small dots of raspberry preserves on top.
- Step 6
6. Use a toothpick to swirl the preserves into the white chocolate batter.
- Step 7
7. Bake in a water bath for 75 minutes, then cool slowly and refrigerate overnight.
- Step 8
8. Remove from the pan and garnish with white chocolate shavings.
- Step 9
9. Keep refrigerated until the moment of serving to maintain the chocolate's texture.
Red Velvet New York Cheesecake
Bring the classic flavors of red velvet cake into a creamy New York cheesecake format. This recipe uses cocoa powder and red food coloring to achieve the iconic look, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting layer. It is a visually stunning dessert that provides a deep, slightly chocolaty flavor profile.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups chocolate graham crumbs
- ◆4 tablespoons melted butter
- ◆32 oz cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 1/4 cups sugar
- ◆2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- ◆1 tablespoon red food coloring
- ◆1 teaspoon vinegar
- ◆4 eggs
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 F and prepare your 9-inch springform pan.
- Step 2
2. Mix crumbs and butter, press into the pan, and bake for 10 minutes.
- Step 3
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then mix in cocoa powder, red coloring, and vinegar.
- Step 4
4. Add eggs one at a time on low speed until just blended.
- Step 5
5. Pour the bright red batter into the pan and bake for 65 to 70 minutes.
- Step 6
6. Let the cake cool in the oven for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Step 7
7. Optional: spread a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese on top before serving.
- Step 8
8. The vinegar reacts with the cocoa to create a subtle tang essential for red velvet flavor.
- Step 9
9. Slice with a hot knife to showcase the vibrant red interior.
Espresso Bean New York Cheesecake
Perfect for coffee lovers, this cheesecake infuses the batter with finely ground espresso beans for a bold and sophisticated flavor. The richness of the New York style base helps to mellow the intensity of the coffee, resulting in a balanced dessert. It is an excellent choice for an after-dinner treat alongside a fresh cup of joe.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ◆6 tablespoons melted butter
- ◆32 oz cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 cup sugar
- ◆2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
- ◆1/2 cup sour cream
- ◆4 eggs
- ◆Chocolate-covered espresso beans for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 F and grease your springform pan.
- Step 2
2. Prepare the crust with crumbs and butter, bake for 10 minutes, and cool.
- Step 3
3. Dissolve the espresso powder in the sour cream before adding to the batter.
- Step 4
4. Beat cream cheese and sugar, then add the coffee-infused sour cream.
- Step 5
5. Mix in the eggs one by one on low speed until combined.
- Step 6
6. Pour into the crust and bake for 70 minutes.
- Step 7
7. Cool the cheesecake in the oven with the door cracked, then refrigerate for 8 hours.
- Step 8
8. Garnish the top with chocolate-covered espresso beans around the perimeter.
- Step 9
9. This cheesecake is even better when served with a drizzle of mocha sauce.
Peanut Butter Cup New York Cheesecake
This recipe is a dream for fans of the classic chocolate and peanut butter combination. A rich peanut butter cheesecake filling is studded with chopped peanut butter cups and set on a dark chocolate cookie crust. It is a dense, high-energy dessert that is perfect for birthdays or casual family gatherings.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs
- ◆4 tablespoons melted butter
- ◆32 oz cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 cup sugar
- ◆3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- ◆1/2 cup sour cream
- ◆4 eggs
- ◆1 cup chopped peanut butter cups
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 F and grease a springform pan.
- Step 2
2. Mix cookie crumbs and butter, press into the pan, and bake for 10 minutes.
- Step 3
3. Beat cream cheese, sugar, and peanut butter until very smooth.
- Step 4
4. Stir in the sour cream, then add eggs one by one on low speed.
- Step 5
5. Gently fold in half of the chopped peanut butter cups.
- Step 6
6. Pour the batter into the crust and sprinkle the remaining peanut butter cups on top.
- Step 7
7. Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, then cool in the oven and chill for at least 6 hours.
- Step 8
8. The peanut butter makes this cake particularly dense, so slice small pieces.
- Step 9
9. Store in the refrigerator to keep the peanut butter cups from softening too much.
Apple Cinnamon New York Cheesecake
This recipe combines the creamy texture of a New York cheesecake with the spiced, fruity goodness of an apple pie. Sautéed cinnamon apples are layered on top of the cake, providing a soft and flavorful contrast to the rich filling. It is the ultimate comfort food dessert, especially when served slightly warmed or at room temperature.
Ingredients
- ◆1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ◆6 tablespoons melted butter
- ◆32 oz cream cheese, softened
- ◆1 cup sugar
- ◆1 teaspoon vanilla
- ◆4 eggs
- ◆2 apples, peeled and sliced
- ◆2 tablespoons butter
- ◆1/4 cup brown sugar
- ◆1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1
1. Preheat oven to 325 F and prepare the crust with crumbs and butter as usual.
- Step 2
2. Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth, then add eggs one at a time.
- Step 3
3. Pour the batter into the crust and bake for 70 minutes.
- Step 4
4. While the cake bakes, sauté apple slices in a pan with 2 tablespoons butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Step 5
5. Cook the apples until they are soft and the sugar has formed a thick syrup.
- Step 6
6. Once the cheesecake has cooled and chilled, arrange the apples on top in a fan pattern.
- Step 7
7. Pour any remaining cinnamon syrup from the pan over the apples.
- Step 8
8. This cheesecake can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an 'apple pie' experience.
- Step 9
9. Refrigerate until ready to serve, but the apples are best when added shortly before presentation.
