Description
This Tall and Creamy New York Cheesecake is a decadent and indulgent dessert with a rich, velvety texture, a subtle tanginess, and the perfect balance of vanilla and lemon. Ideal for any special occasion, this cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser that can be made in advance for stress-free entertaining. The smooth filling and beautifully firm set make it a showstopper on any dessert table.
Ingredients
- 32 ounces cream cheese (4 packages), room temperature
- 5 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups sour cream, room temperature
- 8 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 vanilla beans (or 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice, then beat until well combined.
- Scrape the seeds from the vanilla beans and mix them into the cream cheese mixture (or add vanilla extract). Combine thoroughly.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan and tap gently to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
- Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Crust Option: Add a graham cracker crust by mixing crushed graham crackers with melted butter and pressing it into the bottom of the pan before adding the batter.
- Fruit Topping: Add fresh berries or a berry compote for extra flavor and color.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
