Step-by-step instructions
- Generously butter the inside of a 10-inch hinged skillet.
- Wrap a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil around the bottom and outsides, folding the foil to fit the pan.
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the eggs with the cream until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add this mixture to the egg cream blend and stir until perfectly smooth.
- Add sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, lemon juice, and zest. Beat for about 2 minutes until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared springform pan.
- Place the springform pan in a baking dish that is larger. Fill the baking dish with hot tap water until it comes halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours and 15 minutes. The cheesecake should be light in color, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it sit at room temperature until cool (around 4 hours).
- Cover and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Best ways to enjoy it
There are so many delightful ways to serve up your New York cheesecake! A simple slice, fresh from the fridge, is perfection. For a touch of elegance, serve with a raspberry coulis or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Fresh fruit—especially strawberries, blueberries, or even a citrus salad—pairs beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
Whipping some fresh cream to dollop on top is also a lovely touch. Alternatively, get creative and add a layer of caramel sauce or crushed cookies for extra texture.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing your New York cheesecake properly is essential to maintain its delicious flavor and texture. After it’s fully cooled, cover the cheesecake with some plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from absorbing any odors from your fridge.
It will keep well for about a week in the refrigerator. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze individual slices. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, let the cheesecake thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This is key for achieving a smooth batter.
- Don’t open the oven door while baking! This could cause temperature fluctuations that affect the final texture.
- If your cheesecake cracks while baking, don’t worry! A good dollop of whipped cream or a fruit topping can easily hide minor imperfections.
- Letting your cheesecake chill overnight significantly improves its flavor and consistency, so don’t rush this step.
Creative twists
While the classic New York cheesecake is a timeless favorite, there are endless variations to explore.
- For a chocolate twist, try adding cocoa powder to the batter or even melting chocolate and swirling it through before baking.
- If you’re a fan of fruit flavors, consider incorporating pureed strawberries or blueberries into the batter for a refreshing change.
- For a spiced version, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter, providing warmth and depth to the flavor.
- You can also try a gluten-free crust by using almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies if desired.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare New York cheesecake?
The hands-on prep time is around 30 minutes, but do remember to set aside about 2 hours for baking and at least 4 hours for cooling, followed by overnight refrigeration for best results.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version, or even mascarpone for a different flavor profile. However, avoid using whipped cream cheese, as this can affect the texture.
What’s the best way to know if it’s done baking?
The cheesecake should be light in color, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean. It may still have a slight jiggle in the middle; this is perfectly normal as it will firm up while cooling in the fridge.
With this New York cheesecake recipe, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends alike. Happy baking!
