Plus it freezes really well too. I’ve tested this recipe so many times I have lots of individually sliced pieces in my freezer, and I’m always amazed at how great it tastes after defrosting. I always thought that cheesecakes HAVE to come with some kind of topping. But this plain vanilla cheesecake is so creamy and tasty, it’s fully deserving of a place in my ‘best desserts’ list, even without extra toppings. I think it’s quite a grown-up dessert served this way. My kids prefer it with a drizzle of melted chocolate, a few berries, or some compote (check out my strawberry cheesecake for the version with strawberry compote on top). The butter will also need to be melted when you come to use it. 👩‍🍳PRO TIP Using a stand mixer is the best way to ensure everything is fully incorporated for a lump-free cheesecake. However, you can use a hand-whisk if you like, just make sure those dairy ingredients are room temperature to ensure a smooth mixture. One last tip - wipe your knife after each slice to keep the slices as clean and sharp as possible and to prevent biscuit crumbs getting into the creamy part or the cheesecake.

Make sure your cream cheese, eggs and cream are at room temperature. This also helps the mixture to blend together easier, with no lumps.I don’t use sour cream or lemon juice. The cream cheese still gives the cheesecake that lovely tang, without the risk of the mixture splitting or cracking (that acidic ingredients can cause)I use cornflour to help stabilise the mixture. You can’t taste it, but it really helps to prevent those cracks.I use double (heavy) cream for extra creaminess, plus that extra bit of fat helps to prevent the mixture splitting.I run a knife around the tin as soon as the cheesecake comes out of the oven. The cheesecake will shrink ever so slightly as it cools, and running a knife around the inside of the tin helps to prevent the cheesecake sticking to the sides, which could cause a crack.

Stay updated with new recipes!Subscribe to the newsletter to hear when I post a new recipe. I’m also on YouTube (new videos every week) and Instagram (behind-the-scenes stories & beautiful food photos). Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links – which means if you buy the product I get a small commission (at no extra cost to you). If you do buy, then thank you! That’s what helps us to keep Kitchen Sanctuary running. The nutritional information provided is approximate and can vary depending on several factors. For more information please see our Terms & Conditions.

New York Cheesecake - 39New York Cheesecake - 30New York Cheesecake - 11New York Cheesecake - 37New York Cheesecake - 95New York Cheesecake - 81New York Cheesecake - 63New York Cheesecake - 84New York Cheesecake - 85New York Cheesecake - 13New York Cheesecake - 64New York Cheesecake - 30