New York Cheesecakes are as popular as ever and can be found worldwide. They are often served as a dessert after dinner or on special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries. While there are many variations on this classic dessert, all share a common trait: they are creamy, rich and delicious!

Brief History and Origin

New York Cheesecake has a long and interesting history that dates back to the 19th century. It is believed that cheesecakes were first made in New York City by German immigrants who brought their recipes from Europe. These recipes were then adapted to include cream cheese, giving the cake a unique texture and flavour that quickly became popular among locals and visitors.

New York Cheesecake – The Recipe

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 1 hr
• Additional Time: 6 hr
• Total time: 7 hr 30 mins
• Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 15 crushed graham crackers
• 2 tbsp. melted butter
• 240ml cream cheese
• 300g white sugar
• 175ml milk
• 4 eggs
• 235ml sour cream
• 32g all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp. vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven and preheat it to 175 degrees C. Also, prepare a 9″ springform pan by lightly greasing it with butter.
2. In a medium bowl, mix melted butter and cracker crumbs until thoroughly combined. Transfer to the prepared springform pan and press gently to make an even crust.
3. In a large bowl, add sugar and cream cheese, mix until consistent and smooth, pour in the milk and mix again. Add an egg, whisk until completely incorporated, and then add the remaining eggs in the same manner until everything is mixed.
4. Add flour, vanilla and sour cream, and fold until consistent and smooth. When ready, pour the mixture over the prepared crust.
5. Place in the oven and bake for 60 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the cake inside the oven for 5 to 6 hours for cooling.
6. When ready, remove from oven, transfer to the serving plate and place in the refrigerator until chill, then slice and serve.

Popular variations

Here are a few ways you can change this basic recipe to adjust it to your liking:

• Salted Caramel Cheesecake: The traditional New York Cheesecake with salted caramel on top is so delicious and satisfying. We love how the salted caramel cuts through the sweet creaminess of the cake overall.
• Baked Lemon & Blueberry Cheesecake: This Baked Lemon & Blueberry Cheesecake is the perfect balance between creamy sweet, and tangy. And with the buttery crust on the bottom, it is truly delicious. The best part is it is so easy to make too.
• Chocolate Chip Brownie Cheesecake: This has a rich brownie crust with a silky cheesecake layer of mini chocolate chips. It is decadent, smooth, so cheesy and chocolaty that you will love it.
• Pumpkin Turtle Cheesecake: This Pumpkin Turtle Cheesecake is a spin-off of New York Cheesecake with graham cracker crust. We love the nuttiness that comes with toasted Pecan and the sweetness of caramel and chocolate.
• Matcha Cheesecake with Blueberry Swirl: This cheesecake has a graham cracker crust with super smooth and creamy matcha cheesecake with a sweet blueberry swirl. It is sweet, creamy and has crunch from the crust.