Perfect New York-Style Cheesecake with Fresh Berries

A velvety-smooth, classic New York cheesecake that’s guaranteed to impress! With its buttery graham cracker crust, luxuriously creamy filling, and crown of fresh berries, this cheesecake is pure dessert perfection. The secret lies in the slow baking process and quality ingredients.

Quick Info

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cooling Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full graham crackers)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling

• 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
• 1/4 cup fresh blackberries

Instructions

Preparing the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil, making sure it comes up the sides. This prevents water from seeping in during baking.
3. Grease the inside of the pan lightly with butter.

Making the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt until the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and about 1 inch up the sides of your prepared springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it down firmly.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool while preparing the filling.

Creating the Filling

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently.
2. Gradually add the sugar and beat until creamy and light, about 2 minutes.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until blended. Don’t overmix!
4. Pour in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix on low speed until just combined.
5. Give the bowl a final scrape and stir by hand to make sure everything is well mixed.

Baking the Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
2. Place the wrapped springform pan in a large roasting pan.
3. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
4. Carefully transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center has a slight wobble (like Jell-O).
6. Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.

Cooling and Decorating

1. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and unwrap the foil.
2. Let cool completely on a wire rack for 2-3 hours.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, arrange the fresh berries on top in a circular pattern as shown in the image, mixing the different types of berries for a beautiful presentation.

Pro Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: This is crucial! Cold ingredients don’t blend properly and can lead to a lumpy batter.
• Don’t Overbeat: Once you add the eggs, mix only until combined. Overbeating introduces air bubbles that can cause cracks.
• Water Bath is Non-Negotiable: This creates a moist environment and ensures even baking.
• Cooling Gradually: This prevents the dreaded crack on top of your cheesecake.
• Clean Cuts: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between each slice for picture-perfect servings.

Storage

Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it (without the berry topping) for up to 3 months – wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil.

Nutritional Information

Per slice (1/12 of cake, without berries):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 7g
• Sugar: 28g

Your cheesecake should look just like the photo – a beautiful golden top, perfectly set filling, and a crown of fresh, vibrant berries. The contrast between the rich, creamy cheesecake and the fresh, tart berries makes every bite absolutely perfect!