New York Style Cheesecake
Ingredients:
– 2 ½ cups Graham cracker crumbs
– 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 7 tablespoons melted butter
– 24 ounces cream cheese
– 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 5 large eggs
– 1 ¼ cups heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 5 tablespoons of sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the springform pan.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the cream cheese, 1 ¼ cups of sugar, and flour until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
5. Add the heavy cream, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
8. Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake and remove from the springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
The History of New York Style Cheesecake:
The origin of New York-style cheesecake is unknown, but many believe it traces its roots back to Greek settlers in the New York area during the 1900s. In the 1920s and 30s, the cheesecake was popularized through the diner culture of New York City, where it was a staple dessert. From then on, New Yorkers were hooked. Over time, the cheesecake became a must-have for any true New Yorker.
Tips & Techniques:
1. Use cream cheese in your recipe. For the best results, it’s best to use full-fat cream cheese as it helps to create a nice, thick texture.
2. Use a blend of cream cheese and cottage cheese instead of cream cheese alone. This combination helps to create a lighter texture, perfect for a classic New York-style cheesecake.
3. Gradually beat your cream cheese and blend in your other ingredients. Taking the time to do this will make the finished product much creamier and smoother.
4. For the classic crust, opt for graham cracker crumbs mixed with melted butter. You can also use vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies.
5. Use a springform pan and make sure it’s tightly sealed. This will help prevent the cheesecake from cracking as it bakes.
6. Bake your cheesecake at a lower temperature (around 275-300 degrees Fahrenheit) for longer. This will help the cheesecake to bake evenly and prevent it from overbrowning.
7. Let your cheesecake cool slowly. This helps to prevent cracking and sinking.
8. Finally, top your cheesecake with a layer of sour cream for that classic New York-style flavor.