- Graham Cracker Crumbs (15 ounces, ensure they're finely crushed)
- Unsalted Butter (8 tablespoons, melted to bind the base)
- Granulated Sugar (2 tablespoons, for added sweetness in the crust)
- **Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:**
- Cream Cheese (8 ounces, full-fat for best results; use a blend if possible)
- Sour Cream (6 ounces, adds moisture and richness)
- Eggs (3 large eggs, at room temperature for optimal mixing and rising)
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon, enhances flavor but be careful not to overuse)
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup, adjust based on preference; use a variety if seeking different flavors)
- Lemon Juice or Zest (optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or a small amount of lemon zest for added tanginess)
- **Optional Ingredients (for flavoring):**
- Vanilla Bean (half a vanilla bean, split and scraped to add natural vanilla flavor, optional but recommended)
- Coffee Flavored Extract (a few drops if you're making a coffee cheesecake variation; ensure it’s an SEO-friendly addition based on your target audience)
- **Baking Supplies:**
- Springform Pan (9-inch diameter; use an SEO-friendly size for better search results and conversions)
- Water Bath (for water bath cheesecakes, essential to keep the crust from burning while ensuring a smooth texture inside)
- Aluminum Foil (to cover any exposed parts during baking, enhancing SEO by optimizing content for relevant baking terms)
- **Cooling & Serving:**
- Room Temperature Cheesecake (ensure it has returned to room temperature before serving; this tip is crucial for an optimal eating experience and can be a strong SEO keyword)
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### Classic New York Style Cheesecake Recipe
Are you ready to indulge in one of America's favorite desserts? A classic New York-style cheesecake is a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Follow these detailed steps to create an exquisite cheesecake that will impress your guests.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 and 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- Pinch of salt
#### Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls and spatulas
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Baking sheet
### Step-by-Step Guide:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. **Preheat Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. **Mix Ingredients**: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed.
3. **Press Crust**: Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon to press down firmly. Bake for about 10 minutes to set the crust.
#### Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
1. **Cream Cheese**: In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. **Add Eggs and Sour Cream**: Gradually add eggs one at a time while continuing to mix on low speed. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined.
#### Step 3: Pour into Pan
1. **Transfer Mixture**: Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust. Use a spatula to smooth out the surface.
2. **Bake**: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any spills. Bake in preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes, or until edges are set but center is slightly jiggly.
#### Step 4: Cool and Chill
1. **Cooling**: After baking, turn off the oven but leave cheesecake inside to cool for about an hour.
2. **Chill**: Transfer cheesecake to refrigerator; chill for at least 6-8 hours or overnight before serving.
### Tips for Perfect Cheesecake:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Use a water bath (bain-marie) by placing the springform pan in a larger pan with an inch of hot water. This helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking.
- Avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking; this can cause significant shock to the cheesecake.
#### SEO-Friendly Keywords:
- Classic New York Style Cheesecake
- Graham Cracker Crust
- Cream Cheese Filling
- Water Bath Method
- Chilled Cheesecake
Enjoy your beautifully crafted cheesecake, perfect for any special occasion or simply as a delightful treat!