Making New York-Style Cheesecake can be a rewarding experience if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well mixed.
3. Press Crust: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool on a wire rack.
4. Cream Cheese Mixture: With a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, about 2 minutes.
5. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
6. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
7. Incorporate Sour Cream: Gently fold in sour cream and lemon zest (if using) until smooth.
8. Pour Mixture: Pour the cream cheese filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake Cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
10. Cool: Turn off the oven and slightly crack the door. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour.
11. Chill: Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and cool for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set properly.
12. Remove from Pan: Once thoroughly chilled, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.

Follow these steps to create an incredible New York-Style Cheesecake that will leave everyone craving more!