Name: The Best Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: PT-488678H9M16S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 190g graham crackers (12 full graham cracker sheets); 3 tbsp granulated sugar (35g); 5 tbsp melted unsalted butter (70g); 32 oz full-fat cream cheese (4 8oz blocks or 910g), room temperature; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (325g); ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla bean paste; 4 large eggs, room temperature; ½ cup heavy cream (120g), room temperature; 1 cup sour cream (240g), room temperature; 1 tbsp cornstarch, sifted; 2-3 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice; Extra heavy cream for decoration (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 17 reviews

If you’re on a mission to create a showstopping dessert, look no further: this is truly The Best Cheesecake Recipe. With its ultra-creamy texture, rich and luscious flavor, and a perfectly balanced sweetness, every bite delivers pure bliss. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or to spoil yourself on an average Tuesday, this recipe nails all the details for a classic New York-style cheesecake that’s foolproof, dreamy, and remarkably easy to pull off.

The Best Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of The Best Cheesecake Recipe is that it calls for simple, everyday ingredients, yet each one plays a leading role in creating that unforgettable taste and creamy magic. Don’t skimp or substitute if you want pure cheesecake satisfaction!

Graham crackers: The classic base — offers just the right amount of crunch and a nostalgic flavor that says comfort food from the first bite.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and the batter, while balancing out all the tang and creaminess.
Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed into the crust to help it hold together and add a sumptuous, rich taste.
Full-fat cream cheese: The absolute star of the show — use room-temperature for a smooth, luscious filling.
Salt: Just a touch to elevate all the flavors and prevent the cheesecake from tasting flat.
Vanilla bean paste: Delivers an incredible aroma and that speckled vanilla look for a gourmet finish.
Eggs: Needed for structure — make sure they’re at room temp to avoid a lumpy batter.
Heavy cream: For extra silkiness, giving the filling that dreamy, custard-like quality.
Sour cream: Adds that classic cheesecake tang and a little extra creaminess.
Cornstarch: Helps create a smooth set and reduces the risk of cracks.
Fresh lemon juice: Just a splash to brighten everything up and balance the richness.
Extra heavy cream (optional): Perfect for whipping and adding a fluffy, decorative flourish at serving time.

How to Make The Best Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Pan

Start by bringing every ingredient to room temperature — it’s a little step that makes a big difference in getting a perfectly smooth cheesecake. Preheat your oven to 350F (remember, no fan!) and prep your 9-inch springform pan by brushing it with soft butter and lining with parchment. Wrap the outside with a couple of sheets of foil to avoid any water sneak attacks during the water bath.

Step 2: Build and Bake the Crust

Toss your graham crackers and sugar into a food processor and blitz to fine crumbs, then pulse in melted butter until everything’s combined. Press this mixture very firmly into your prepared pan (either just the base or slightly up the sides). Bake for about 8 minutes, then pull it out and drop your oven temp to 325F. This gives your crust a chance to crisp up and stand strong under all that rich filling.

Step 3: Make the Silkiest Cheesecake Batter

In your stand mixer, combine cream cheese, sugar, salt, and vanilla bean paste. Beat with the paddle attachment for 3-5 minutes, scraping down the bowl a few times, until everything is irresistibly creamy. Lightly beat your eggs in a separate bowl, then add to the batter slowly—mixing on low and only until just combined. Overmixing is the enemy of silky cheesecake!

Step 4: Add Creamy Mix-Ins

Pour in heavy cream, sour cream, lemon juice, and sifted cornstarch. Mix gently on low, continuing to scrape the bowl so everything blends smoothly. Pour this dreamy batter onto your pre-baked crust, and give the whole pan a few gentle taps on the counter to pop any sneaky air bubbles.

Step 5: Bake Low and Slow in a Water Bath

Set a large tray on your oven rack and fill with hot water to create a steamy sauna for your cheesecake. Place the foil-wrapped pan in the tray and bake around 75-80 minutes, resisting the urge to open the oven. When it’s ready, the edges should look set but the center will still have a lovely jiggle to it.

Step 6: Cool with Care

Let your cheesecake rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then run a thin knife or offset spatula around the edge to prevent cracks as it cools — especially important unless you’ve used parchment around the sides. Let it cool for another couple of hours, then transfer (still in the pan) to your fridge and chill overnight. Slow chilling delivers the creamiest slice! Skipping this will break your heart: patience is key to The Best Cheesecake Recipe.

Step 7: Unmold and Decorate

When the wait is finally over, gently remove the cheesecake from the pan. If you spot any imperfections, a hot spatula glides right over for a gorgeous finish. Dress it up with simple whipped cream if you feel fancy, and get ready to wow your guests (or just treat yourself) with each decadent forkful.

How to Serve The Best Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes

The Best Cheesecake Recipe is already stunning on its own, but a little adornment can make it truly irresistible. Dress it up with swirls of lightly whipped cream, a scattering of fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. A drizzle of tangy berry sauce, salted caramel, or dark chocolate ganache on each slice also takes things up a notch for both looks and flavor.

Side Dishes

Because the cheesecake is rich and the centerpiece, pair it with sides that add freshness or a palate-cleansing contrast. A crisp fruit salad, a bowl of ripe strawberries, or even small glasses of sparkling lemonade make the perfect companions. Serve with strong coffee or black tea to balance the creaminess for an elegant touch.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn The Best Cheesecake Recipe into a dessert platter by slicing it into bars or mini squares for easy sharing at parties. Use seasonal fruit slices, edible flowers, or even caramel popcorn for a whimsical and extra-special presentation. Glass domes, cake stands, or rustic wooden boards can level up your cheesecake’s visual wow-factor on any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cheesecake only gets better after a night in the fridge, so don’t worry if you have slices left. Keep any remaining cheesecake covered with plastic wrap in the springform pan or an airtight container, and it’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days. If you decorated it with cream, just note that the texture of the cream may soften.

Freezing

This is one reason The Best Cheesecake Recipe is beloved by bakers: it freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then pop it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep perfectly for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then serve as usual — it will taste like you just made it.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best served cold or at room temperature, but if you want a slightly softer texture, let slices rest on the counter for about 30 minutes before enjoying. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the creamy consistency and might cause the crust to become soggy.

FAQs

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

The biggest causes of cracks are overbaking, sudden temperature changes, or skipping the water bath. Follow the instructions closely: bake gently in a water bath, don’t open the oven door early, and cool gradually. Lining the pan with parchment and running a knife around the edge after baking also helps prevent sticking and cracking.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

For the creamiest results and classic flavor, stick to full-fat cream cheese. Low-fat versions will make the cheesecake less rich and more prone to a grainy texture. Remember, The Best Cheesecake Recipe is all about indulgence!

What can I substitute for graham crackers?

If graham crackers aren’t available, wheat digestive biscuits make a great alternative. You can also try vanilla wafer cookies or shortbread biscuits, but be sure to adjust the amount of butter to create the perfect, packable crust.

How do I know when my cheesecake is done?

The edges should look set and just slightly puffed, but the center will still jiggle like set Jell-O. Don’t worry — it will firm up as it chills. Overbaking leads to dry cheesecake, so trust the timing and your jiggle test.

Can I make The Best Cheesecake Recipe in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s ideal to make your cheesecake a day ahead so it chills slowly and develops that perfect velvety texture. Store it in the fridge, covered, until you’re ready to use. You can even freeze it for special occasions — just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re inspired and ready to treat yourself or your loved ones to The Best Cheesecake Recipe. Every bit of care and patience that goes into this dessert pays off the moment you take that first, dreamy forkful. Give it a try — I have no doubt it’ll earn a permanent spot in your kitchen’s greatest hits!