Classic New York Cheesecake

Ingredients

• 2 cup s graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 6 tbsp butter, melted
• 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 325°F. Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with foil.

2. 2

   Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom and 1 inch up the sides of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes.

3. 3

   Beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add sour cream and mix until combined.

4. 4

   Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each. Stir in vanilla, lemon zest, and flour. Do not overmix.

5. 5

   Pour filling over the crust. Place in a water bath (set pan in a larger pan with 1 inch of hot water).

6. 6

   Bake for 60-70 minutes until the center is almost set but still has a slight jiggle.

7. 7

   Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

8. 8

   Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) before releasing from the pan and slicing.