Cheesecake freezes beautifully, and a cheesecake in the freezer is like money in the bank. Here’s how to freeze and thaw cheesecake so dessert is ready when you are.
The flavor and texture of a classic cheesecake is always better the day after you bake it, so planning ahead is part of the deal. Sometimes, like when you’re throwing a party and you need to check something off your list, it’s nice to make dessert way ahead of time.
Cheesecake is no small undertaking. Luckily, it’s perfectly suited for freezing, and a cheesecake in the freezer can feel like money in the bank. Thaw it out for a few hours and you have an instant, highly impressive dessert.
If you’re thawing frozen cheesecake slices, you won’t have to wait as long to enjoy them. The slices will thaw out much quicker than a whole cake. Unwrap the slices and expect them to defrost at room temperature for 20 to 40 minutes, depending on size, thickness, and density.
Storing in the Freezer
A well-wrapped cheesecake will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Most sources say after one month in the freezer, cheesecake begins to lose its quality. I’ve had well-wrapped cheesecakes frozen for as long as two months with no problems, but any longer than that is tempting fate.
How to Freeze Cheesecake
Here are the basic steps:
- Cool the cheesecake completely before refrigerating it.
- Chill the cheesecake thoroughly in the refrigerator.
- Cut the cheesecake into portions, if you like, or leave it whole.
- Place the cheesecake on a cardboard round.
- Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Freeze for up to 1 month for optimal flavor, 2 months is the max.
- Thaw in the fridge, on the counter, or in the microwave before serving.
Lets take a look at each of these steps in turn.
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How to Freeze Cheesecake
FAQ
How long does it take to thaw frozen cheesecake?
Can you defrost a cheesecake in the microwave?
How do you soften frozen cheesecake?
How do you melt frozen cheesecake?
How do you defrost a cheesecake?
The best method to defrost a cheesecake is by thawing it in the refrigerator overnight at 36 to 41°F. You can thaw cheesecake in the fridge for around 8-12 hours or more, depending on the thickness and size of your cheesecake. “Cheesecake will always taste like love.” – Shonda Rhimes, Writer
Can You defrost cheesecake in the microwave?
No, it will be best not to defrost cheesecake in the microwave. While microwaves have a defrost setting, they can heat the food unevenly [ 1] and may ruin your cake. Also, the toppings can melt, and the excess water can ruin the texture of cheesecakes.
Can You defrost a cheesecake a day in advance?
If the cheesecake was baked for a special occasion, it is best to prepare the dessert a day in advance. But if you had to make the cheesecake in a hurry, it may be necessary to skip the refrigeration. If you only defrost the cheesecake on the counter, it probably won’t be done in two hours.