Introduction:
Indulge your senses with the velvety richness of Chantal’s New York Cheesecake, a classic dessert that transcends time and tantalizes taste buds. This recipe takes you through the step-by-step process of creating a luscious cheesecake with a thick and creamy texture, a buttery graham cracker crust, and the unmistakable essence of New York-style cheesecakes.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 packages (32 ounces) of cream cheese, softened
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For the Topping (Optional):
- Fruit compote, fruit preserves, or fresh berries
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven.
2. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to compact the crumbs.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while preparing the filling.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
- Incorporate sour cream, heavy cream, eggs (one at a time), and vanilla extract. Mix well after each addition.
- Gradually add the flour, ensuring it is fully incorporated without overmixing.
4. Pour into the Pan:
- Remove the crust from the refrigerator and pour the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust.
5. Smooth and Tap:
- Use a spatula to smooth the top of the cheesecake filling, ensuring an even surface.
- Tap the pan on the countertop gently to release any air bubbles.
6. Bake in a Water Bath:
- Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan. Fill the larger pan with hot water until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath helps prevent cracking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Cool and Refrigerate:
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional hour to cool gradually.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or, preferably, overnight to allow it to set.
8. Add Topping (Optional) and Serve:
- Before serving, add your favorite toppings, such as fruit compote, fruit preserves, or fresh berries.
9. Slice and Enjoy:
- Run a knife around the edges of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake.
- Release the springform, slice, and serve each decadent piece of Chantal’s New York Cheesecake.
10. Share the Bliss:
- Share the joy of this velvety delight with friends and family, savoring each creamy bite and reveling in the timeless appeal of a perfectly crafted New York Cheesecake.
Conclusion:
Chantal’s New York Cheesecake is more than a dessert; it’s a sublime experience that captures the essence of indulgence and culinary mastery. Follow these steps, immerse yourself in the art of cheesecake making, and savor the heavenly results that epitomize the decadent delight of a New York-style classic.