If you have ever dreamed of biting into a rich, velvety dessert that feels like a slice of heaven, then this Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This classic cheesecake is famously indulgent, with a perfectly smooth texture that holds its tall structure with pride. Every ingredient and step is designed to bring out that iconic creamy richness and dense yet delicate crumb that defines the best New York cheesecakes, making it ideal for special occasions or whenever you want to spoil yourself with a truly decadent treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake Recipe starts with an ingredient list that’s deceptively simple but packs a punch in flavor and texture. Each element plays a critical role in bringing together that perfect balance of creaminess, richness, and structure that you want in your cheesecake.
- Cream cheese, 32 ounces (4 packages), room temperature: The foundation of rich flavor and creamy texture; make sure it’s softened to avoid lumps.
- Large eggs, 5, room temperature: They add structure and moisture, binding the cheesecake beautifully without toughness.
- Sour cream, 2 cups, room temperature: Adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess while keeping the texture light.
- Butter, 8 tablespoons, room temperature: Enhances richness and helps create a smooth batter when blended with cream cheese.
- Sugar, 1 ½ cups: Sweetens perfectly without overpowering the tang or vanilla notes.
- Cornstarch, 2 tablespoons: Acts as a gentle thickener to ensure a dense yet smooth cheesecake that won’t crack.
- Vanilla beans, 2 (or 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract): Adds depth and aromatic warmth—fresh vanilla beans elevate flavor to a new level.
- Fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon: Just a hint to balance sweetness and brighten the overall flavor.
How to Make Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by setting your oven to 325°F (163°C). It’s important to preheat so that your cheesecake cooks evenly from the very beginning. Grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly, then line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure the cheesecake pops out easily once baked. This little prep step sets you on the path to cheesecake perfection.
Step 2: Beat Cream Cheese and Butter Until Silky Smooth
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat this duo for about 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture becomes luxuriously smooth and creamy. This step might seem simple, but it’s where the magic starts—the smoother your batter, the creamier your finished cheesecake will be.
Step 3: Add Sugar, Cornstarch, and Lemon Juice
Next up, add the sugar, cornstarch, and fresh lemon juice to your cream cheese mixture. Beat them together until fully incorporated. The cornstarch is your secret weapon here, helping to thicken the batter and create that signature dense yet creamy texture that makes this Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake Recipe stand out. The lemon juice lightens the flavor profile, ensuring your cheesecake never feels too heavy.
Step 4: Incorporate Vanilla
Scrape the precious seeds from fresh vanilla beans into the bowl, or alternatively, mix in pure vanilla extract. This fragrant addition infuses every bite with warm, aromatic vanilla notes that perfectly complement the cheesecake’s rich tang. Mix just until everything is fully blended to avoid overworking the batter.
Step 5: Add Eggs One at a Time
Carefully add the eggs, one by one, mixing on a low speed after each addition. This slow integration prevents too much air from entering the batter, which could cause cracks later. Mix only until smooth and combined—you want to keep the batter delicate for that creamy, crack-resistant texture.
Step 6: Pour Batter and Bake
Pour your perfectly mixed batter into the prepared springform pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles, which could cause imperfections in your cheesecake. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Look for a set surface with a slight jiggle in the center and golden edges—that’s your signal the cheesecake is just right.
Step 7: Cool Gradually
Turn off your oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for one hour. This gradual cooling method prevents shock to the delicate structure, helping to avoid cracks and keeping your cheesecake as tall and creamy as it can be.
Step 8: Chill to Perfection
Once cooled, refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 4 hours or, better yet, overnight. This chilling lets the flavors meld beautifully and allows the cheesecake to firm up, so each slice is neat and luxurious.
How to Serve Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your cheesecake with classic garnishes like fresh berries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of homemade berry compote. Whipped cream is another favorite that adds lightness without overshadowing the creamy depths.
Side Dishes
Serve your cheesecake with a side of fresh fruit or a small scoop of vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream for an extra special treat. These simple companions offer contrast in texture and temperature that make each bite even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, consider layering thin slices of cheesecake with fruit sauces in clear glasses to create mini cheesecake parfaits. You can also top your slices with chocolate shavings or a few edible flowers to impress guests at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cheesecake covered tightly in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and creamy for up to 5 days, making it perfect if you’re looking to savor it slowly or share with friends over several days.
Freezing
This Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is generally not necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use a water bath to bake this cheesecake?
While this recipe doesn’t require a water bath, you can absolutely use one to help regulate heat and reduce cracking if your oven tends to be uneven. Just be sure your springform pan is tightly sealed to prevent leaks.
Why is cornstarch important in this recipe?
Cornstarch acts as a gentle thickener, helping to stabilize the cheesecake and create that dense, creamy texture without making it tough or gummy.
Can I substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute, but it will slightly change the flavor and texture. Sour cream gives a subtle tang and creaminess that is traditional in a New York-style cheesecake.
How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Mix your batter gently, avoid overmixing, bake at the correct temperature, and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually with the oven door ajar to minimize cracking. Proper chilling also helps.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe itself doesn’t include a crust, so it’s naturally gluten-free. If you decide to add a crust, be sure to use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers.
Final Thoughts
You simply cannot go wrong with this Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake Recipe. It’s a true showstopper that promises luxury in every bite—perfectly dense, silky smooth, and proudly tall. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for a new signature dessert, this cheesecake will undoubtedly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch how everyone swoons over each luscious slice!
Print
Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake recipe delivers a rich and velvety dessert perfect for any special occasion. With a smooth texture achieved by carefully beating cream cheese with butter, and enhanced with vanilla and a hint of lemon juice, this classic cheesecake is baked to perfection with a slightly golden edge and a luscious, creamy center.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Ingredients
- 32 ounces cream cheese (4 packages), room temperature
- 8 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 5 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups sour cream, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 vanilla beans (or 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy release after baking.
- Mix the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes. This creates a silky batter essential for the cheesecake’s smooth texture.
- Add Sugar, Cornstarch, and Lemon Juice: Add the sugar, cornstarch, and fresh lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until all ingredients are well combined. The cornstarch helps thicken the batter and produce a delicate texture.
- Add Vanilla: Scrape the seeds from the vanilla beans and add them to the mixture, or alternatively add the vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated to infuse the cheesecake with rich vanilla flavor.
- Add Eggs One at a Time: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Mix only until smooth and fully combined, being cautious not to overmix, which can cause cracks during baking by introducing too much air.
- Pour the Batter into the Pan: Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles, ensuring a smooth surface.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55-65 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- Chill in the Refrigerator: After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the cheesecake to fully set and develop its rich, creamy flavor.
- Serve: Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and enjoy the tall, creamy perfection of this classic New York-style cheesecake!
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth and lump-free batter.
- Be careful not to overmix after adding eggs to avoid cracks during baking.
- Cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven prevents sudden temperature changes which causes cracks.
- For best flavor and texture, chill the cheesecake overnight before serving.
- If using vanilla beans, scrape seeds thoroughly for maximum flavor.
