Heavenly Cheesecake Recipe for an Indulgent Dessert
Welcome aspiring bakers and cheesecake lovers! Today, I’m primarily excited to share with you the recipe for a delicious and classic cheesecake – Diner Cheesecake, to be precise. Just hearing the name “diner cheesecake” likely brings to mind an old-fashioned, comforting and wholesome dessert that one might order at a classic diner.
Actually, I know it does because this recipe comes straight from the Claremont Diner in New Jersey, which has been serving hungry patrons since 1929. If you’ve ever tasted their version of the dessert, then you definitely understand what we’re going for here.
The Diner Cheesecake is an iconic piece of Americana dessert, and with good reason. It is a delectable and dreamy combination of fluffy cream cheese filling mixed with crunchy graham cracker crumbs crust, topped off with sweet whipped cream or juicy fruit. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or are new to making homemade desserts, this recipe will fulfill your cravings for the best cheesecake you have ever tasted.
Baking Diner Cheesecake is also a great way to impress your loved ones or house guests. It can act as the centerpiece of any party or gathering, allowing everyone to indulge in its rich and creamy flavor. Honestly, there’s no better way to make someone feel special than by treating them to a slice of freshly baked cheesecake garnished with berries and whipped cream.
So let’s roll up our sleeves, preheat our ovens to 325°F (160°C), and get started on making this extraordinary dessert that will make us all proud to call ourselves bakers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a cheesecake aficionado looking to try a new and delicious recipe? Look no further than this diner cheesecake recipe that will leave you wanting more! Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
Firstly, this cheesecake is made with only the best ingredients. Rich and creamy Philadelphia cream cheese is combined with heavy cream and sour cream, resulting in a velvety texture that melts in your mouth. The use of evaporated milk also adds an extra dimension of richness, making this cheesecake an indulgent treat.
Secondly, the crust of this diner cheesecake is made with graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, sugar, and butter, giving it the perfect amount of sweetness and crunch. It’s the perfect complement to the creamy filling.
Thirdly, this recipe includes some of the classic elements of a New York-style cheesecake which harkens back to the golden age of diners in America. The original New York-style cheesecakes were born in Brooklyn back in the 1920s; it then spread throughout New York City, and other parts of America. Now you can experience that classic taste right in your own home.
Finally, this recipe offers endless opportunities for personalization. You can easily tweak it by adding your favorite toppings like fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can even experiment with making the cheesecake crustless or using different types of cookies for the crust.
In conclusion, if you want to impress your friends and family with a classic diner-style dessert, then this is the perfect cheesecake recipe for you! Go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Ingredient List
Ready to gather your ingredients and start baking?
Here is a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to make this classic diner-style cheesecake:
For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 3 (8 ounce) packages of Philadelphia Cream Cheese, at room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2/3 cups heavy cream
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The quantities of the ingredients may look overwhelming, but once you have them all collected, this cheesecake recipe will come together beautifully.
The Recipe How-To
Now, for the heart and soul of this article – the recipe itself! I know you’ve been eagerly waiting for this moment, so let’s not beat around the bush, shall we? Here’s how to make the Diner Cheesecake recipe that will surely impress any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, divided 1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 3 packages (8 ounce each) of Philadelphia Cream Cheese, at room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
Crust:
Let’s start by preparing the crust. In a bowl, mix together the graham crackers crumbs and 1/4 cup of sugar. Add in the melted unsalted butter and mix until well combined. Press this mixture on a 9-inch springform pan (pro-tip: use your fingers to really pack it in there nicely!). Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until it becomes slightly golden brown.
Filling:
Now, let’s move on to the filling! In a large mixing bowl, beat the 3 packages of Philadelphia Cream Cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add in 1 1/4 cups of sugar while continuing to beat until well combined. Next up, add in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix together. Slowly start adding one egg at a time into the mixture while beating it together. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding another one in.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of sour cream until it becomes smooth. Then add this mixture into the cream cheese mixture and beat together until well combined.
Baking:
Time to bake our cheesecake! Pour the filling mixture onto the crust-lined springform pan you prepared earlier.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) then bake your cheesecake for approximately 50 minutes or until when jiggled it doesn’t wiggle anymore leaving just enough moisture but not too much that seems undercooked; Just like how a good apple looks right between overripe or rotten only perfect will do!
Take the cheesecake out from the oven and let it cool down on a wire rack for an hour or so. Once completely cooled down, refrigerate it for at least 8 hours or overnight (yes, I know it’s a tough wait!)
Serving:
And voila! Your very own homemade Diner Cheesecake is ready to serve. Add some cinnamon powder on top for an
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to bring some variety to your Diner Cheesecake recipe? Or maybe you’re looking for a way to put your own spin on this classic dessert? Fear not, as I have some substitutions and variations that are sure to satisfy your taste buds!
Firstly, you can experiment with the crust by using different types of crumbs. Instead of graham cracker crumbs, try using crushed Oreo cookies or chocolate wafers. If you want a nuttier flavor, consider using ground almonds or pecans instead.
For those who prefer a lighter texture or are looking for a no-bake option, try making a crustless cheesecake. Simply eliminate the crust and cook your cheesecake filling according to the original New York-style recipe.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up in terms of flavor, add some spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to your cheesecake filling, or experiment with different extracts like lemon or almond. You can also change up the toppings by adding fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries or peaches, drizzling caramel sauce, or sprinkling some chopped nuts on top.
For a vegan-friendly version of this cheesecake classic, replace the cream cheese and heavy cream with vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for the filling. You can use vegan butter and flour for the crust as well.
Whether you prefer original New York-style cheesecake or enjoy trying out different variations of it, don’t be afraid to customize your Diner Cheesecake recipe according to your liking!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing options for this classic diner cheesecake recipe, there’s no shortage of delicious combinations.
First things first, don’t be afraid to add your own special touch to this tantalizing treat. Top your slice with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, fresh berries, or even whip up a batch of homemade strawberry compote to complement the tangy cream cheese filling.
If you’re serving a crowd, you can cut the cheesecake into small bite-sized squares and place them on parchment paper for easy snacking. This works well for both casual gatherings and more formal events.
Looking to pair your cheesecake with a beverage? Coffee is an obvious choice that enhances the rich flavors of the cream cheese and graham cracker crust, but if you’re in the mood for something different, try a cup of tea, a glass of milk, or even a dessert wine like Port or Sherry.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, hot cocoa or a cold glass of apple cider can also make great complements to this classic dessert.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair this delectable cheesecake recipe, one thing is for sure – everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to baked goods, planning ahead can save you time and keep you sane. This cheesecake is no exception, and I strongly recommend making it a day in advance of when you plan to serve it. Not only will this give it ample time to chill before cutting, but it will also allow for the flavors to intensify.
Once your cheesecake has chilled overnight, it’s time to think about storage. If you have leftovers or are making this dessert in advance, the best way to store it is by covering the top with plastic wrap and placing it in the refrigerator. This will keep your cheesecake fresh for up to three days. However, if you’re planning on storing the dessert for longer than that, freezing is the way to go.
To freeze your cheesecake, first make sure that it has cooled completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This will keep air from getting in and freezer burn from forming. Once wrapped, place the cheesecake in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag and store it for up to three months.
Reheating your cheesecake is simple too. You can either let it come to room temperature naturally or place it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warm. If you’re looking for a quicker option, microwaving individual slices on low heat works as well.
One important note: before reheating or serving any frozen cheesecake, make sure that it has thawed completely in the refrigerator first.
Tips for Perfect Results
When baking a cheesecake, there are several tips to ensure it turns out perfectly. One of the key elements is to use room temperature ingredients. This applies to the cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream. If the ingredients are not at room temperature, they may not mix together properly which can result in a lumpy or cracked cheesecake.
Another helpful tip is to use a water bath while baking. Cheesecakes rely on moisture to bake evenly and prevent cracking. Therefore, placing the springform pan in a larger baking dish filled with water will create a humid environment in the oven and help prevent the cheesecake from drying out and cracking.
An important factor when making a crust is determining the right ratio of graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter. It’s recommended to use 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs mixed with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 6 tablespoons of melted butter for a 9-inch crust. Pressing this mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan will ensure an even base for the cheesecake.
To avoid over-baking the cheesecake, use a thermometer to check its internal temperature. The ideal internal temperature range for cheesecake should be between 145-150°F. If the cheesecake goes above that range, it can lead to dryness and cracking.
Lastly, always let your cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating it. This makes sure that there are no residual heat pockets that could potentially cause condensation in your refrigerator as well as prevent cracks on top of your cheesecake due to sudden change in temperature.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create a perfectly smooth and delicious diner-style cheesecake every time.
FAQ
Now that you have all the details on how to prepare this exquisite Diner Cheesecake, it’s time to take a closer look at some frequently asked questions about the recipe. In this section, I will address typical concerns and issues regarding the ingredients list, the cheesecake’s consistency, baking process, and variations. So read on to clear any doubts you may still have and be confident about making the best Diner Cheesecake for yourself and your loved ones.
What is the difference between New York-style cheesecake and regular cheesecake?
Cheesecake comes in different varieties, each with its own characteristic texture and taste. Some cheesecakes use heavy cream and sour cream to produce a smooth and silky texture, while others rely heavily on cream cheese to create a dense and rich flavor. However, the distinctiveness of New York cheesecake cannot be simply attributed to excess cream cheese.
What is the difference between Sicilian cheesecake and New York cheesecake?
While American cheesecake usually contains cream cheese as a main ingredient, the Italian version uses ricotta instead. Moreover, the Italian cheesecake has a lighter and less dense texture, resembling that of a sponge cake.
What are the three types of cheesecake?
Although New York-style, classic, and no-bake cheesecakes are widely known and loved, the best flavor of cheesecake is ultimately subjective and varies among individuals. So, whether your taste buds prefer a fruit-flavored cheesecake or a more traditional flavor, the possibilities for delicious cheesecake flavors are endless.
Is sour cream or heavy cream better for cheesecake?
When making cheesecake, it’s common to use either heavy cream or sour cream to soften the cheese and create a moist texture. From personal experience, I recommend using sour cream since it adds a tangy flavor to the cake. Three whole eggs are also essential in binding the cheesecake together.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and sure to impress your taste buds, the Diner Cheesecake recipe is an absolute must-try. Whether you’re a fan of classic cheesecake or prefer something a bit more unique, this recipe is easy to follow and customizable to suit your preferences. With ingredients that are easily accessible and simple-to-follow instructions provided in this article, you can easily whip up this delightful dessert at home within just a few hours.
So why wait any longer? Head to your nearest grocery store and pick up the necessary ingredients today; you won’t regret it! Impress your friends and family with a homemade cheesecake that tastes as good as the classic ones served in diners across New York. And who knows, this may very well be the start of a new tradition in your household. So go ahead and give this Diner Cheesecake recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed.
Diner Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients
Crust
- 13 1/2 ounces graham cracker crumbs
- 1 1/2 cups sugar (less can be used)
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3/4 cup butter (melted)
Filling
- 5 (8 ounce) packages Philadelphia Cream Cheese
- 1 3/4 cups sugar
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 lemon, juice of
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 7 eggs (beaten)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 pint heavy cream
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
Instructions
- Crust:
- Mix all ingredients together and press into sides and bottom of a 10" x 2 3/4" springform pan. This makes alot of crust sometimes I will cut if in half or freeze half.
- Filling:
- In large bowl, cream the cheese. Add sugar, lemon, flour, butter and mix thoroughly.
- Add vanilla, evaporated milk, eggs and heavy cream. Mixture will be thin.
- Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. This depends on your oven. I always put a tray with water under it to catch drippings and help prevent cracking. When it looks like it has set turn off oven and let it rest in the oven for a few minutes. This may also help to prevent cracking.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
Steven is a chef by heritage, so it’s no wonder why baking is such a big part of who he is. To share his passion for all things sweet, he created cookiesncrepes.com. It’s the perfect platform to indulge in delicious treats, all with a sprinkle of his signature flare.