Cheater's New York Style Cheesecake

Indulge in the rich and creamy decadence of "Cheater's New York Style Cheesecake," a fuss-free dessert that's big on flavor and short on prep time. Perfect for novice bakers or anyone seeking a simplified approach, this recipe features a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety cream cheese filling enhanced by a hint of vanilla and optional tangy lemon juice. The secret to success lies in its no-fuss baking technique, with an easy cooling process that prevents cracks and guarantees a picture-perfect presentation. Ready in just 15 minutes of active prep time, this cheesecake is the ideal make-ahead treat for dinner parties, holidays, or any special occasion. Serve it plain or dress it up with your favorite toppings—think fresh berries, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream—for a customizable dessert that will leave everyone raving.

Nutriscore Rating: 40/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:55 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar (for crust)
• 16 ounces Cream cheese, softened
• 0.75 cups Granulated sugar (for filling)
• 0.5 cups Sour cream
• 1 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 2 whole Large eggs
• 1 tablespoon All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoons Lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Step 3

Press the crust mixture into the bottom of the springform pan, spreading it out evenly. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to compact the crust firmly. Set aside.

Step 4

In another large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and 3/4 cup of sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5

Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice. Beat again until well combined.

Step 6

Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition. This prevents overmixing, which can cause cracks in the cheesecake.

Step 7

Sprinkle the flour into the mixture and beat until just incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure an even mix, but do not overbeat.

Step 8

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 9

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble. Do not overbake.

Step 10

Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This gradual cooling prevents cracks.

Step 11

Remove the cheesecake from the oven and transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to set completely.

Step 12

When ready to serve, run a knife around the edge of the pan to release the cheesecake, then remove the springform ring. Slice and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1111.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3976.2

Total Fat 267.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 154.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 1086.7mg	0%
Sodium 2776.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 356.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.7g	0%
Total Sugars 243.9g
Protein 58.1g	0%

Vitamin D 80IU	0%
Calcium 771.2mg	0%
Iron 10.4mg	0%
Potassium 902.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 59.2%

Protein: 5.7%

Carbs: 35.1%