New York-Style Cheesecake

This New York-Style Cheesecake recipe has been passed down from an Italian friend to Gloria Warczak’s mother-in-law, and it has become their family’s favorite dessert. With the addition of a chocolate-nut crust, this cheesecake is a true indulgence that will delight any sweet tooth.

INGREDIENTS:

Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups crushed chocolate wafers
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup melted butter

Filling:

• 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons sour cream
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

Topping:

• 2 cups sour cream
• 5 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Cherry pie filling

PREPARATION:

1. In a small bowl, combine the crushed chocolate wafers, chopped walnuts, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture onto the bottom and halfway up the sides of an ungreased 10-inch springform pan. Freeze for 15 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar until smooth. Combine the evaporated milk and lemon juice, and add it to the cream cheese mixture, blending just until combined. Stir in the lightly beaten eggs.
3. Pour the filling into the crust. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes or until the center is almost set.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract for the topping. Carefully spread the mixture over the cheesecake and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake, and then cool it for an additional hour. Refrigerate the cheesecake overnight.
6. Before serving, top the cheesecake with cherry pie filling. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

YIELD:

This recipe yields 12 servings of New York-Style Cheesecake.

PREP/TOTAL TIME:

Preparation time: 20 minutes Baking time: 45 minutes + chilling time Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes + chilling time

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Ensure the cream cheese is softened before starting to make the filling to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
• Use an ungreased 10-inch springform pan for the crust and filling.
• Freeze the crust for 15 minutes to help it set before adding the filling.
• Place the springform pan on a baking sheet while baking to catch any potential drips or spills.
• Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating it overnight to achieve the best texture and flavor.
• Top the chilled cheesecake with cherry pie filling just before serving for a classic and delicious finishing touch.

TIPS:

• New York-style cheesecake is famous for its rich, dense, smooth, and creamy texture. It is a beloved dessert in New York City.
• Customize the crust by using your favorite type of chocolate wafer or cookie crumbs and nuts.
• Serve the cheesecake chilled for the best taste and texture.
• Experiment with different fruit toppings, such as strawberry or blueberry, for variety.
• Consider serving this New York-Style Cheesecake at special occasions, holidays, or any time you want to impress your guests with a classic and decadent dessert.

In conclusion, Gloria Warczak’s New York-Style Cheesecake, a cherished family recipe, has become a favorite dessert in their household. This recipe, passed down from an Italian friend to Gloria’s mother-in-law, features a delectable chocolate-nut crust that perfectly complements the creamy and smooth filling.

To prepare the cheesecake, a combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar creates a luscious and velvety texture. The addition of evaporated milk and lemon juice adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor. The cheesecake is then baked to perfection and topped with a creamy layer of sour cream, creating a delightful contrast.

Before serving, the New York-Style Cheesecake is beautifully adorned with a layer of cherry pie filling, adding a burst of fruity sweetness. The cheesecake should be chilled overnight to enhance its flavor and ensure a perfect consistency.

New York-style cheesecake is renowned for its richness, density, and creaminess, and this recipe captures the essence of this classic dessert. Serve it at special occasions, holidays, or whenever you desire a show-stopping and indulgent treat.

With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, Gloria’s New York-Style Cheesecake is sure to satisfy any cheesecake lover and become a standout dessert at your next gathering.