Cheesecake lovers, rejoice! If you’ve ever craved a slice of rich, velvety cheesecake with a crispy base and a creamy filling, you’re in for a treat. In this article, we’ll walk you through the perfect basic recipe for classic New York cheesecake that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family. This recipe includes easy-to-follow instructions, helpful tips, and answers to frequently asked questions about making this timeless dessert.
What Is Classic New York Cheesecake?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about what makes classic New York cheesecake so special. This dessert is known for its dense, rich, and velvety texture, achieved by using a generous amount of cream cheese. The cheesecake sits atop a crispy, buttery crust made from cookies like Bastogne biscuits, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
Ingredients
To make a classic New York cheesecake for 10 people, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 175g Bastogne biscuits: These provide the perfect crunchy base.
- 50g butter or margarine: Melted to mix with the biscuit crumbs.
- 600g cream cheese: The star of the show, softened to room temperature.
- 100g sugar: To sweeten the cheesecake filling.
- 1 packet of vanilla-flavored sugar: For a hint of sweet, aromatic flavor.
- 3 eggs: Also softened to room temperature for better mixing.
- 200ml crème fraîche: Adds creaminess and a slightly tangy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling.
You’ll also need a springform pan (approximately 22 cm in diameter) and a mixer for blending the filling.
Preparation
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get baking! Follow these steps:
- Preheat the oven to 140°C with the hot air function. Place a container of water at the bottom of the oven to keep the air moist and prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
- Prepare the springform pan by cutting a circle of baking paper to fit the bottom. Grease the pan and place the baking paper on the bottom.
- Make the cookie base: Blend the Bastogne biscuits in a food processor until finely ground. Melt the butter and mix it with the cookie crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan to form a firm base.
- Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla sugar, and eggs. Mix until smooth. Add the crème fraîche and cornstarch, then mix again briefly.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cookie base in the springform pan.
- Bake the cheesecake in the oven for about 50 minutes. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open.
- Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Tips for the Best Cheesecake
Here are some tips to ensure your cheesecake turns out perfect every time:
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps achieve a smooth, consistent filling.
- Prevent cracking: By adding a container of water to the oven, the humidity will help keep the cheesecake from cracking.
- Cool gradually: Letting the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven helps prevent cracks.
Storing and Freezing
After making your cheesecake, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead, you can cut the cheesecake into slices, wrap them in plastic bags or foil, and freeze them for up to a month.
Conclusion
Classic New York cheesecake is a timeless dessert that combines a crispy base with a creamy filling for a truly satisfying treat. By following the recipe and tips outlined in this article, you can create a delicious cheesecake that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy your sweet creation!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cookie for the base? Absolutely! While Bastogne biscuits are recommended for this recipe, you can use other types of cookies, such as graham crackers or digestive biscuits, for the base.
- How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking? Adding a container of water to the oven while baking helps maintain humidity, which can prevent cracking. Letting the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven also helps.
- Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that the texture and taste may be slightly different from the classic recipe.
- How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking? The cheesecake should be set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
- Can I add toppings to the cheesecake? Yes! Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as fresh berries, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream for added flavor and visual appeal.