If you're a fan of thick, creamy, dense cheesecake, you'll want to save this list of the various types of cheesecake for later. It's not just sweetened cream cheese and Graham Cracker crumbs. Did you know there are various cheesecake varieties? We're not simply referring to flavours here. We are discussing several cheesecake varieties from throughout the world. We are all familiar with and adore the standard New York dessert. But until you've experienced a delectable Basque cheesecake and the many other mouthwatering variations that this tasty delicacy offers, you haven't truly lived.
Here are the best cheesecake variations that are a must-try.
New York Cheesecake
New York cheesecake is a classic dessert that originated in the United States and has since become popular around the world. It is a rich and creamy dessert made with a sweet graham cracker crust and a dense, smooth filling that is baked until just set. The filling is made with cream cheese, which gives it a tangy and slightly sweet flavour and is often topped with a layer of sour cream or fruit compote.
Basque Cheesecake
Basque cheesecake is a unique take on the classic dessert that originated in Basque Country, a region between France and Spain. This crustless cheesecake has a burnt exterior that encases a creamy, custardy interior. The texture is somewhere between a traditional cheesecake and a flan, and the flavour is rich and indulgent, with notes of caramel and vanilla.
What sets Basque cheesecake apart from its classic counterpart is the use of cream cheese, heavy cream, and sugar, along with a higher baking temperature that causes the exterior to caramelize and develop a beautiful, dark brown crust. Unlike the New York cheesecake, which is typically made with a graham cracker crust and a dense, smooth filling, Basque cheesecake is all about the contrast of textures and flavours.
Philadelphia Cheesecake
Philadelphia cheesecake, also known as no-bake cheesecake, is a popular dessert that is simple to make and delicious to eat. Unlike traditional baked cheesecake, Philadelphia cheesecake requires no baking and sets in the refrigerator, making it a perfect summer dessert.
The flavour of a Philadelphia cheesecake is similar to that of a traditional baked cheesecake, with a tangy, creamy taste that is balanced by the sweetness of the graham cracker crust. However, since it is not baked, the texture is slightly different - it is lighter and airier than a baked cheesecake and has a slightly softer consistency.
One of the best things about a Philadelphia cheesecake is its versatility. It can be topped with fruit, chocolate, or caramel sauce, or simply enjoyed plain. It is also easy to customize by adding different flavours, such as vanilla extract, lemon zest, or even peanut butter.
Ricotta Cheesecake
Ricotta cheesecake is a type of cheesecake that is made with ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese, which is commonly used in other types of cheesecake. This gives it a unique texture and flavour profile. Ricotta cheese is made from the whey leftover from other cheese-making processes and has a slightly grainy texture with a mild, slightly sweet flavour.
it is a cheesecake with a slightly lighter and fluffier texture than other types of cheesecake. It also has a slightly less tangy flavour, with the ricotta cheese providing a subtle sweetness that complements the other flavours in the cheesecake. Ricotta cheesecake can be served plain or topped with fresh berries, fruit compote, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Savoury Cheesecake
Savoury cheesecake is a twist on the classic dessert cheesecake, but instead of a sweet filling, it has a savoury filling made with ingredients like cheese, vegetables, and herbs. The crust is typically made from savoury crackers or breadcrumbs instead of sweet cookies.
The flavour of savoury cheesecake can vary widely depending on the ingredients used in the filling. Some recipes incorporate ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flavour profile, while others use bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions for a more savoury, breakfast-inspired flavour.
Japanese Cotton Cheesecake
Japanese cotton cheesecake, also known as soufflé cheesecake, is a light and fluffy dessert that's become increasingly popular in recent years. The cheesecake is made with cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and cornstarch, which is what gives it its signature cotton-like texture.
Unlike traditional cheesecake, Japanese cotton cheesecake is not dense and heavy. Instead, it's incredibly light and airy, with a delicate, almost melt-in-your-mouth texture. The cheesecake also has a subtle sweetness that's not overpowering, making it a great choice for those who don't like overly sweet desserts.
The flavour of Japanese cotton cheesecake is also unique. It has a tangy and slightly creamy taste, thanks to the cream cheese, but with lightness, that's reminiscent of a soufflé. Some recipes also incorporate lemon zest or juice for an added burst of citrus flavour.
Cheesecake Crumb Cake
Cheesecake crumb cake is a delicious and unique dessert that combines two classic treats into one. This indulgent dessert has a crumbly and buttery base made from cake crumbs, and a creamy and rich cheesecake filling that is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The texture of the cheesecake is soft and fluffy, almost like a souffle. It is a perfect treat for those who love cheesecake but want to try something different from the traditional New York-style cheesecake.
The cheesecake filling is light and airy, and the crumbly base adds a perfect textural contrast. Cheesecake crumb cake is a perfect treat for any occasion, and it can be served with fresh fruits or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.