New York Cheesecake (Printable Version)

This Creamy New York Cheesecake is rich, buttery, and dreamy. It's the perfect dessert for holidays, parties, or whenever you want something indulgent.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 2 tablespoons sugar
02 - 1½ cups crushed graham crackers (about 12 whole crackers)
03 - ⅛ teaspoon salt
04 - 5 tablespoons butter, melted

→ Filling

05 - 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest, about one lemon
06 - 4 teaspoons vanilla
07 - 6 large eggs
08 - 32 oz (four 8-ounce blocks) softened cream cheese
09 - 2 cups granulated sugar
10 - 3 tablespoons regular flour
11 - 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, about one lemon
12 - ½ cup sour cream
13 - ¼ teaspoon salt

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Turn oven to 375°F and position the rack a bit lower than the center. Wrap the outside of a 9- or 10-inch springform pan with foil, using two layers for safety. Spray the inside with nonstick spray.
02 - Combine the crushed crackers, melted butter, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Press mixture firmly into the pan bottom until even. Bake it for 10 minutes. Let it cool while you move on to the next step.
03 - Bring oven heat down to 325°F. Start heating water using a kettle.
04 - Use an electric mixer to blend the cream cheese, sugar, and flour until smooth, about a minute. At a low speed, mix in vanilla, lemon zest, juice, and salt until it all comes together. Add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly after each. Finally, stir in sour cream gently until it’s all mixed.
05 - Set your springform pan into a big roasting pan. Pour the filling on top of the crust. Pour boiled water into the roasting pan, letting it come about an inch up the sides. Bake for 1 hour and 30-45 minutes, just until the middle has a light jiggle. Let cool for 45 minutes in the water, remove foil, and chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Store in the fridge for up to two days in advance.
02 - Keep in the freezer for three months max, then thaw in the fridge.
03 - To slice cleanly, wipe your knife after each cut.