Cheesecake is one of New York City’s most iconic desserts, and no place represents it better than Eileen’s Special Cheesecake. Since 1975, this small bakery in Manhattan has served what many call the best cheesecake in NYC. Tourists, locals, and even celebrities have made it a must-visit stop.
The good news is, you don’t have to be in New York to enjoy it. With the right ingredients and a few professional baking tricks, you can recreate the classic Eileen’s cheesecake recipe at home. This guide covers the history of the shop, the popular menu, delivery options, and of course, a step-by-step recipe for a creamy, rich, and perfectly balanced New York-style cheesecake.
If you enjoy exploring New York’s food scene, you can also check out our guide on Hearth NYC Restaurant for another local favorite.
Eileen’s Cheesecake NYC Inspiration
Eileen’s Special Cheesecake has been a landmark in New York City for nearly 50 years. Located at 17 Cleveland Place in SoHo, Manhattan, the shop has a cozy, family-owned vibe. Unlike heavy or overly sweet cheesecakes, Eileen’s cheesecake is known for being light, creamy, and perfectly balanced.
Visitors from around the world stop here to taste flavors like classic New York cheesecake, strawberry, blueberry, and chocolate. The bakery has earned loyal customers because it stays true to the authentic style of cheesecake while offering creative seasonal variations.
Eileen’s Cheesecake Recipe | Famous NYC Dessert at Home
Ingredients
Method
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it resembles wet sand.
- Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 325°F (160°C), then let it cool.
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed.
- Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour.
- Mix until just combined to avoid overbeating.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
- Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan.
- Add hot water to the roasting pan to create a water bath, which prevents cracks.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50–55 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly open, and let the cheesecake rest for 1 hour.
- Transfer to the refrigerator and chill overnight, at least 8 hours, before slicing.
Notes
- Always use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth batter.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracks.
- Let the cheesecake rest in the fridge overnight for best flavor.
- You can add fruit toppings like strawberries or blueberries before serving.
Ingredients for Eileen’s Cheesecake Recipe
The beauty of Eileen’s cheesecake lies in its simplicity. You don’t need complicated techniques or rare ingredients. Here’s everything you need to make it at home:
For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the filling:
- 24 ounces cream cheese (3 packs, softened to room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For topping (optional):
- Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or cherry glaze
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the crust
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it resembles wet sand.
- Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 325°F (160°C), then let it cool.
2. Make the filling
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed.
- Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour.
- Mix until just combined to avoid overbeating.
3. Bake the cheesecake
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
- Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan.
- Add hot water to the roasting pan to create a water bath, which prevents cracks.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50–55 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle.
4. Cooling and chilling
- Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly open, and let the cheesecake rest for 1 hour.
- Transfer to the refrigerator and chill overnight, at least 8 hours, before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect New York-Style Cheesecake
- Always bring ingredients to room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Do not skip the water bath, it helps prevent cracks.
- Don’t overbake. A small jiggle in the center means it’s perfect.
- For a clean slice, dip a knife in hot water, wipe it, and then cut.
Eileen’s Cheesecake Menu
When you walk into the shop in NYC, you’ll notice the wide range of cheesecakes. Eileen’s doesn’t just serve one classic version. The menu includes:
- Classic New York cheesecake
- Strawberry cheesecake
- Blueberry cheesecake
- Chocolate swirl cheesecake
- Mini cheesecakes in multiple flavors
- Seasonal specials like pumpkin or key lime
Eileen’s Cheesecake Delivery
For those who can’t make it to SoHo, Eileen’s Special Cheesecake also offers delivery options. If you live in NYC, you can order locally. Some services even provide nationwide shipping, so you can enjoy an authentic cheesecake in different parts of the United States.
Why Eileen’s Cheesecake New York City is Famous
There are plenty of reasons why Eileen’s has stayed at the top for decades:
- Family-owned business with a personal touch
- Over 40 years of consistency and quality
- Light and creamy texture that sets it apart from other dense cheesecakes
- A must-visit for anyone exploring New York City desserts
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze Eileen’s cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
2. What makes Eileen’s cheesecake different?
It’s lighter, creamier, and less sweet compared to other New York cheesecakes.
3. How long does homemade cheesecake last?
When stored in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 5 days.
4. Can I make mini cheesecakes using this recipe?
Yes, just divide the batter into muffin tins with liners and reduce the baking time to 20–25 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Eileen’s Special Cheesecake has become a true New York City icon. Whether you’re walking into their bakery in SoHo or recreating their cheesecake at home, the experience is unforgettable. This Eileen’s cheesecake recipe gives you a chance to bring a little piece of NYC into your kitchen.
So if you’re craving an authentic New York cheesecake, you have two options: order Eileen’s cheesecake delivery, or make it fresh in your own oven with this recipe. Either way, you’re in for something special.
For more reviews and latest photos, check out Eileen’s Special Cheesecake on Yelp.
