New York Style Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping

Name: New York Style Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 10 h
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup sour cream, room temperature; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp heavy cream; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 tbsp cornstarch; ½ cup water; 1 tsp lemon juice

Introduction

Few desserts are as iconic and indulgent as the New York Style Cheesecake. Known for its ultra-rich, dense, and creamy texture, this cheesecake is the gold standard of all cheesecakes. Unlike lighter, airy versions, the New York cheesecake is baked low and slow, often with a touch of sour cream for tang, and always with a buttery graham cracker crust that balances its richness.

What takes this classic to another level is the fresh strawberry topping. The natural sweetness and slight tartness of the strawberries cut through the richness of the cheesecake, adding freshness, color, and a touch of elegance. Together, the combination is nothing short of perfection—silky, creamy cheesecake with a burst of fruity brightness.

This is the dessert that makes jaws drop at family gatherings, birthdays, or dinner parties. It looks stunning, tastes heavenly, and feels like a true labor of love (even though it’s easier than it seems).

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of rich and refreshing. The cheesecake itself is decadent and smooth, while the strawberry topping keeps it from feeling too heavy. I also love how timeless it is—no matter the occasion, this cheesecake always feels like the right choice.

Another reason I adore it is that it’s a true crowd-pleaser. It never fails to impress, and I find joy in watching everyone’s face light up when they take that first creamy, strawberry-topped bite. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, so I can prepare it in advance and focus on entertaining.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This cheesecake is a must-try because:

It’s the ultimate classic dessert that belongs in every baker’s repertoire.
The dense, creamy filling paired with a buttery crust is irresistible.
The strawberry topping adds freshness and makes it visually stunning.
It’s perfect for any special occasion—or simply to treat yourself.

Once you master this recipe, you’ll never need to order cheesecake from a bakery again.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooling & Chilling Time: 6–8 hours (overnight recommended)
Total Time: ~8–10 hours (including chilling)

Servings and Calories

Servings: 12 slices
Calories per serving: ~450–500 kcal

Course and Cuisine

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American (New York Specialty)

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 crackers)
¼ cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

4 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
1 cup sour cream, room temperature
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp heavy cream

For the Strawberry Topping

1 lb (450 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
½ cup water
1 tsp lemon juice

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Add sugar and beat until combined.
Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and flour.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
Stir in heavy cream—do not overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Wrap outside of springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
Place pan in a larger roasting pan and fill outer pan with hot water (water bath).
Pour cheesecake batter into crust.
Bake for 1 hour 20–30 minutes, until center is just set and slightly jiggly.
Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

Step 4: Chill the Cheesecake

Remove from oven, run a knife around edge to loosen, and refrigerate 6–8 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Make the Strawberry Topping

In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat until thick and glossy.
Add strawberries and stir to coat.
Let cool completely before spooning over cheesecake.

How to Serve

Release cheesecake from springform pan and place on a serving plate.
Spoon strawberry topping generously over the top.
Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.
Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Recipe Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth filling.
Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.
Always bake in a water bath for even cooking.
Chill overnight for best results—flavors improve with time.

Variations

Blueberry Cheesecake: Replace strawberries with blueberries for a different fruity topping.
Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake: Swirl melted chocolate into batter before baking.
Mini Cheesecakes: Use muffin tins with liners for individual portions.
No-Bake Version: Skip baking and use a gelatin-stabilized cream cheese filling for quicker prep.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Refrigerate covered for up to 5 days.
Freezing (Without Topping): Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.
Freezing (With Topping): Not recommended, as strawberries may release water.

Special Equipment Needed

9-inch springform pan
Hand or stand mixer
Roasting pan (for water bath)
Mixing bowls and spatula

Conclusion

New York Style Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping is the definition of a classic dessert done right. With its creamy, dense filling, buttery crust, and fresh, vibrant strawberry topping, it’s a dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any time you want to impress, this cheesecake is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Print Recipe

New York Style Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping

Author: Laura Bennett Cuisine: American Courses: Desserts

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 90 mins Rest Time 8 hrs Total Time 10 hrs

Calories: per serving: ~450–500 kcal

Description

Few desserts are as iconic and indulgent as the New York Style Cheesecake. Known for its ultra-rich, dense, and creamy texture, this cheesecake is the gold standard of all cheesecakes.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2: Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add sugar and beat until combined. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and flour. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Stir in heavy cream—do not overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake: Wrap outside of springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Place pan in a larger roasting pan and fill outer pan with hot water (water bath). Pour cheesecake batter into crust. Bake for 1 hour 20–30 minutes, until center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Step 4: Chill the Cheesecake: Remove from oven, run a knife around edge to loosen, and refrigerate 6–8 hours or overnight.
Step 5: Make the Strawberry Topping: In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until thick and glossy. Add strawberries and stir to coat. Let cool completely before spooning over cheesecake.