1 serving New York Style Cheesecake packs a whopping 974 Calories, but for indulgent treat-seekers, it's worth every bite. This Classic Dessert boasts a rich flavor that's difficult to resist, making it a staple in many bakeries and households across the country.
Made with Cream Cheese, Sugar, Eggs, and a graham cracker crust, New York Style Cheesecake has a smooth, dense texture that is both creamy and tangy. Although it may not be the healthiest Dessert option, it's certainly a crowd favorite that's perfect for special occasions or a well-deserved cheat day.
In this article, we'll explore the history of New York Style Cheesecake, the ingredients needed to make it, and some nutritional information to keep in mind for those counting their Calories. We'll also provide some tips for making the perfect cheesecake and suggest some Toppings to try on this beloved Dessert. Finally, we'll share some alternatives to New York Style Cheesecake and highlight some famous bakeries that are known for making some of the best in the business. Bon appetit!
History of New York Style Cheesecake
The origins of New York Style Cheesecake are somewhat unclear, but it's believed that the recipe was brought to the United States by early European settlers. The Dessert reportedly gained popularity in New York City in the early 1900s and eventually became an iconic dish associated with the Big Apple. Today, it's commonly found in bakeries and restaurants across the country and is beloved by millions of Americans. Despite its name, New York Style Cheesecake has become a universal dessert that has been adapted in many different ways. Some bakers add fruit or chocolate to their recipe while others play with the crust or the texture of the filling. However, the original recipe remains a Classic that stands the test of time.
Ingredients for New York Style Cheesecake Recipe
Making New York Style Cheesecake requires several key ingredients. You'll need Cream Cheese, Sugar, Eggs, Sour Cream, Butter, vanilla extract, and graham crackers for the crust. Some bakers also add lemon juice or lemon zest for a tangy flavor. The recipe can be veganized by using non-dairy cream cheese and sour cream substitutes. While the recipe may seem straightforward, it's important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the cheesecake comes out just right. For example, the cream cheese and eggs must be at room temperature before mixing, and the cheesecake should be baked in a water bath to prevent cracking. The crust must also be sturdy enough to handle the creamy filling without falling apart.
There's no denying that New York Style Cheesecake is a high-calorie Dessert. One serving (approximately 1/12th of a 9-inch cheesecake) contains about 974 Calories, 68 grams of fat, and 68 grams of carbohydrates. However, it also provides 12 grams of protein, 5% of the recommended daily allowance of calcium, and 15% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's best to enjoy New York Style Cheesecake in moderation or consider sharing a slice with a friend. Some bakeries offer mini-sized cheesecakes or cheesecake bites that can be a less indulgent option. Additionally, you can experiment with non-traditional ingredients such as low-fat cheese and Sugar substitutes to cut down on calories.
Different Varieties of New York Style Cheesecake
New York Style Cheesecake may be the most popular version of the Dessert, but there are many different ways to enjoy it. Some bakers add fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or cherries to the topping for a burst of freshness. Others use chocolate or caramel sauce to drizzle over the cheesecake. Some even experiment with savory flavors like bacon or jalapeño for a unique twist. In addition to Toppings and flavors, the texture of a New York Style Cheesecake can vary as well. Some bakers prefer a smooth, creamy filling while others prefer a denser, almost cake-like texture. The crust can also be made with different ingredients such as Oreo cookies or shortbread for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions for New York Style Cheesecake
New York Style Cheesecake is a Dessert that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a formal event, consider adding fresh flowers or fruit to the top of the cake for an elegant touch. For a casual gathering, you can serve the cheesecake in individual mason jars or in a trifle dish for easy sharing. When it comes to pairings, New York Style Cheesecake is famously complemented by a cup of coffee or espresso. The strong, bitter flavors of the coffee work well with the rich sweetness of the cheesecake. Some people also enjoy pairing their cheesecake with a glass of milk or a fruity wine such as Riesling or Pinot Noir.
Tips for Making the Perfect New York Style Cheesecake
Making a New York Style Cheesecake can be a daunting task, but with a few tricks up your sleeve, you can create a Dessert that will impress your guests. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use room temperature ingredients to prevent lumps and create a smooth texture.
- Press the graham cracker crust firmly into the pan to create a sturdy base for the filling.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking.
- Leave the cheesecake in the oven for an extra 10-15 minutes after baking with the oven turned off to let it cool slowly and prevent cracking further.
Cheesecake Toppings to Try on New York Style Cheesecake
While New York Style Cheesecake is delicious on its own, adding Toppings can take it to the next level. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
- Chocolate sauce or syrup
- Caramel sauce or dulce de leche
- Whipped cream or whipped topping
- Crumbled cookies or candy (such as Oreos or Butterfingers)
- Nuts or seeds (such as almonds or pistachios)
Alternatives to New York Style Cheesecake
If you're in the mood for something sweet but want to switch things up, here are a few Dessert options that share some similarities with New York Style Cheesecake:
- Italian-style cheesecake, which is typically lighter, fluffier, and made with ricotta cheese instead of Cream Cheese
- German cheesecake, which has a sponge-like texture and uses a combination of quark cheese, Eggs, and Butter in the filling
- Japanese-style cheesecake, which has a light, airy texture and is made with cream cheese, eggs, and cornstarch
Famous Bakeries That Make the Best New York Style Cheesecake
If you're not up for making your own New York Style Cheesecake, fear not. There are plenty of bakeries across the country that are known for making some of the best cheesecake out there. Here are a few to check out:
- Junior's Cheesecake in Brooklyn, NYC
- Eileen's Special Cheesecake in Little Italy, NYC
- Zabar's in NYC
- Magnolia Bakery in NYC and other locations
- The Cheesecake Factory in various locations
Different Ways to Enjoy New York Style Cheesecake
Although New York Style Cheesecake is traditionally enjoyed as a Dessert, there are plenty of ways to incorporate it into other dishes or meals. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Cheesecake stuffed French toast
- Cheesecake cupcakes
- Cheesecake ice cream
- Cheesecake dip for fruit or pretzels
- Cheesecake truffles
- Cheesecake martinis
Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first.
Frequently Asked Questions: New York Style Cheesecake
1. How many Calories are in one serving of New York Style Cheesecake?
There are 974 calories in one serving of New York Style Cheesecake.
2. What is New York Style Cheesecake?
New York Style Cheesecake is a Dessert made with Cream Cheese, Sugar, Eggs, and a graham cracker crust. It is known for its dense, rich texture and tangy flavor.
3. How is New York Style Cheesecake different from other types of cheesecake?
New York Style Cheesecake is typically heavier and denser than other types of cheesecake, with a thicker and more substantial crust. It also has a tangy flavor and is often served plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar, rather than topped with fruit or other sweet Toppings.
4. What are some tips for making the perfect New York Style Cheesecake?
Some tips for making the perfect New York Style Cheesecake include using room temperature ingredients, beating the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy, and baking the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking. It is also important to let the cheesecake cool completely before slicing and serving.
5. Can I make a lighter version of New York Style Cheesecake?
Yes, it is possible to make a lighter version of New York Style Cheesecake by using reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar substitutes, such as stevia or Splenda. You can also omit the crust or use a lighter crust made with crushed cereal or low-fat cookies. However, keep in mind that these modifications may affect the texture and flavor of the cheesecake.