Making New York Cheesecake is a straightforward process if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
4. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla, mixing until well incorporated.
5. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition just until combined. Do not overmix.
6. Mix In Other Ingredients: Add the sour cream, flour, and lemon juice if using. Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
7. Pour into Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
9. Turn Off the Oven: Once baked, turn the oven off but leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar. This helps prevent cracking as it cools.
10. Cool: After about an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
11. Chill: Once cooled, cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.