Print

Creamy New York-Style Baked Cheesecake Recipe Without Water Bath Easy and Perfect

new york-style baked cheesecake - featured image

A creamy, dense New York-style baked cheesecake that requires no water bath, making it easier and less messy while delivering a smooth, crack-free finish with classic tang.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 4 (8 oz / 226g each) packages full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until evenly coated and press firmly into the bottom and slightly up the edges of a 9-inch springform pan. Compact tightly using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy (2-3 minutes). Scrape down sides as needed.
  3. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until fully combined.
  4. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until just combined.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition to incorporate without overmixing.
  6. Sprinkle flour over batter and gently fold in with a spatula.
  7. Pour filling over cooled crust in springform pan. Tap pan gently to release air bubbles and smooth surface.
  8. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 70-75 minutes until edges are set and center has slight jiggle.
  9. Turn off oven and crack door open. Cool cheesecake inside oven for about 1 hour.
  10. Remove from oven and cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
  11. Refrigerate uncovered for 1 hour, then cover loosely and chill at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture. Avoid overmixing eggs to prevent cracks. Slow cooling in the oven with door cracked helps prevent cracks. If cracks appear, cover with sour cream or whipped cream topping. Room temperature ingredients are key. For gluten-free crust, substitute graham crackers with gluten-free crumbs or nuts. For dairy-free, use vegan cream cheese and coconut yogurt but expect texture differences.

Nutrition

Keywords: New York cheesecake, baked cheesecake, no water bath cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, easy cheesecake recipe, graham cracker crust