New York cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of history. Among the countless versions, Junior’s Cheesecake stands out as a timeless classic, loved for its silky texture and decadent flavor. This iconic treat captures the spirit of New York—bold, rich, and unforgettable.

The genius behind Junior’s Cheesecake lies in its unique combination of a sponge cake base and a luxuriously creamy filling. While most cheesecakes opt for a graham cracker crust, Junior’s embraces the lightness of sponge cake, adding a delicate texture that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese filling.

Making this legendary cheesecake at home may sound daunting, but with the right steps and a little patience, you can recreate this masterpiece in your kitchen. Here’s how.

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Ingredients:

For the Sponge Cake Base:

• 1/2 cup cake flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 2 large eggs (separated)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp lemon extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
• 1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream

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Instructions:

Preparing the Sponge Cake Base:

1. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Whip the Egg Whites: Beat the egg whites until frothy, gradually adding half the sugar. Continue beating until soft peaks form.
4. Mix the Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon extract until pale and creamy.
5. Combine and Fold: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the yolk mixture. Then fold in the egg whites, followed by the melted butter.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden. Let it cool completely before proceeding.

Making the Cheesecake Filling:

1. Blend the Cream Cheese: Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Eggs: Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
3. Fold in the Cream: Gently fold the heavy whipping cream into the mixture for an ultra-smooth texture.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Prepare a Water Bath: Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the pan in a large roasting dish and set aside.
2. Assemble: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled sponge base.
3. Bake: Place the roasting pan in the oven and fill it with hot water, enough to come halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake at 350°F for 75–90 minutes or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
4. Cool Slowly: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for an hour. This prevents cracks. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

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The Perfect Slice

When it’s finally time to serve, you’ll be rewarded with a cheesecake that embodies everything Junior’s is known for. The creamy filling is decadently rich yet airy, while the sponge cake base adds a subtle sweetness that elevates the entire dessert. Each bite offers a little taste of New York’s charm and culinary history.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in something extraordinary, Junior’s Classic New York Cheesecake is a dessert experience you’ll never forget.