This ultimate cheesecake has graced the plates of millions, earning a well-deserved reputation as a classic and iconic dessert from one of New York City's most legendary restaurants.The secret to the allure of the Carnegie Deli Cheesecake lies in its distinctive recipe, which boasts a deliciously crisp crust and rich, creamy filling.
1/2cupunsalted butterchilled and cut into 1/4-inch bits
Filling:
1 1/4lbssoftened cream cheese
3/4cupsugar
1 1/2tablespoonsflour
1 1/2teaspoonslemon juice
1 1/2teaspoonsvanilla extract
3eggs
1egg yolk
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.Next, add 1 egg yolk and 1/2 cup chilled unsalted butter bits.Using your fingertips, blend the mixture until it forms pea-sized lumps.Press the mixture into a ball, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
Set your oven temperature to 400°F (205°C).
Take a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.Grease the sides of the pan with butter.
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface.Transfer it to the prepared springform pan.Press the dough evenly on the bottom and about 1 inch (2.5 cm) up the sides of the pan. Trim any excess dough.
Place the crust in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while preparing the filling.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1⁄4 lbs softened cream cheese, 3⁄4 cup sugar, 1 1⁄2 tablespoons flour, 1 1⁄2 teaspoons lemon juice and 1 1⁄2 teaspoons vanilla extract.Use an electricmixer to beat the mixture at medium speed until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, lightly beat 3 whole eggs and 1 egg yolk.Gradually add the beaten eggs to the cream cheese mixture, continuing to beat until they are fully incorporated.
Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust in the springform pan.
Adjust the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Place the filled springform pan in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.A toothpick inserted into the center of the cheesecake should come out mostly clean.
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.Once cooled, cover and refrigerate it overnight for the optimal cheesecake experience, allowing the flavors to meld and the creamy texture to fully develop.Enjoy your delicious Carnegie Deli Cheesecake garnished with a fresh fruit topping or sweet sauce of your choice!