Crack Proof: New York Style Cheesecake

Step 1

To prepare crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the crust ingredients together with a fork until evenly moistened.

Step 2

Lightly coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick cooking spray. Firmly press the mixture over the bottom and 1-inch up the sides of the pan. Use your finger or the smooth bottom of a glass. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.

Step 3

To prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese on low speed for 1 minute just until smooth and free of any lumps.

Step 4

Gradually add the sugar and beat until creamy, 1 to 2 minutes. Periodically scrape down the sides of the bowl and the beaters.

Step 5

Add the eggs, 1 at a time, and continue to slowly beat until combined.

Step 6

Stir in the vanilla and the lemon zest.

Step 7

Blend in the sour cream. The batter should be well mixed, but not overbeaten. (Overbeating incorporates too much air and will cause the cake to puff when baking, then fall and crack when cooling.)

Step 8

Pour filling into the crust-lined pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 9

To prepare a water bath: Set the pan on a double piece of aluminum foil and fold up the sides. This will prevent water from seeping into the seams of the springform pan. Carefully set the cake pan in the large roasting pan.

Step 10

Pour boiling water into the roasting pan until the water is about halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan.

Step 11

Preheat oven 325.

Step 12

Place cake and water bath into the preheated oven.

Step 13

Decrease oven to 300 bake for 1 hour 20 min.

Step 14

The cheesecake should jiggle. It will firm up after chilling. Be careful not to overcook! Do not do a toothpick test in the cake's center this will make a crack.

Step 15

Loosen the cheesecake from the sides of the pan by running a thin metal spatula around the insides of rim. Let cool in the pan for 30 minutes. Chill in the refrigerator, loosely covered, for at least 4 hours to set up.

Step 16

De-mold and transfer to a cake plate. Slice the cheesecake with a thin non-stick knife that has been dipped in hot water and wiped dry after each cut.

Step 17

To prepare the topping: Combine all ingredients in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-high heat.

Step 18

Bring up to a slow boil and stir gently until the berries break down and release their natural juices. The consistency should remain a bit chunky.

Step 19

Cool to room temperature and serve on top of the cheesecake. Yield: 2-1/2 cups