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Masterful Best-Ever New York Cheesecake: 1 Crack-Free Recipe

Best-Ever New York Cheesecake (Water Bath? No Cracks!)

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Create the best-ever New York cheesecake with this foolproof recipe. Learn the secrets to a perfectly smooth, creamy cheesecake without any cracks, even without a water bath.

Ingredients

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  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes. Let cool completely.
  4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1.5 cups sugar and flour, beating until well combined.
  5. Stir in vanilla extract and lemon zest.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated after each addition. Do not overmix.
  7. Gently fold in sour cream.
  8. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
  9. Bake for 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
  10. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) and bake for another 60-75 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  11. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.
  12. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
  13. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
  • Do not overmix the batter once eggs are added.
  • Cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks.

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