Creamy, sweet, and unapologetically decadent, cheesecake is a much-loved dessert that can elevate any occasion to extra special. A staple on menus of fine-dining restaurants and neighborhood diners alike, cheesecake has charmed dessert lovers with its perfect combination of chewy-crunchy crust and smooth filling that melts in your mouth. Lucky for us, popular flavors like ricotta cheesecake and seasonal favorites like pumpkin cheesecake make it easy to enjoy this luscious last course year-round.
Cheesecake is undoubtedly near the top of the list when it comes to desserts that take a lot of time to make. Fortunately, cheesecake freezes well, so you can make it ahead of time or save leftovers so your hard work wont go to waste. However, there are some things you need to know before attempting to freeze cheesecake to ensure it retains its taste and texture. Ready to find out what they are? Here are the most common mistakes people make when freezing and defrosting cheesecake. Take notes, and youll be well on your way to mastering this valuable skill.
Cheesecakes should be served at room temperature. If frozen, leave the cake overnight in the refrigerator and defrost on the counter 3 hours before serving. Otherwise, defrost on the counter 4-5 hours before serving.
Not double-wrapping the cheesecake
Freezing cheesecake is a great way to extend shelf-life, keep money in your pocket, free up extra space in your refrigerator, and have dessert ready for last-minute guests. But if not executed properly, youll be in for some future disappointment. By using the absolute best way to freeze cheesecake, youll prevent mishaps like freezer burn and moisture loss.
Youll need plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prepare cheesecake for freezing. The first step involves wrapping the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap. The proper way to do this is to pull out a sheet of plastic three times as wide as the cheesecake. Next, place the cheesecake with its cardboard base in the center. Bring one end of plastic up over the cheesecake, then bring the other end over the top and press down to seal the edges. Finally, wrap the entire plastic-wrapped cheesecake with aluminum foil. This double wrap will protect your cheesecake from the chilly air in the freezer. The less air that comes into contact with your cheesecake, the better it will retain its quality and the longer it will last in the freezer. You can also place the double-wrapped cheesecake in a vacuum seal bag for extra protection if you dont want to take any chances.
Leaving the cheesecake whole instead of slicing
Once your cheesecake is thoroughly chilled and any wet toppings are removed (if needed), its time to get slicing. While you can freeze cheesecake whole, why not save yourself a step in the future and slice the cheesecake before you pop it in the freezer? If it is sliced before freezing, your cheesecake is already pre-portioned, so you can remove as many or as few slices as you need, be it for an impromptu gathering or a quick snack.
One of the common mistakes people make with homemade cheesecake is using the wrong tool to slice it. The best tool for slicing cheesecake is a sharp, thin-bladed knife, ideally with hollowed edges that reduce drag. First, remove your chilled cheesecake from the pan, including the sides, if using a springform. Next, dip the knife blade in hot tap water, wipe dry, then cut a perfect slice with smooth edges and no crumbs. If you neglect to dip the knife in warm water before each slice, the filling and crust crumbs will stick to the knifes blade. Make sure to always wipe the blade dry after dipping to keep your slicing clean and neat. Once your cheesecake is sliced, place small sheets of waxed paper between the slices so they can be separated easily when the time comes. You can also freeze the slices individually if desired.
How to Freeze Cheesecake
FAQ
How do you melt frozen cheesecake?
How long can frozen cheesecake sit out?
Can you eat frozen cheesecake without defrosting?
How long does cheesecake take to thaw?
The cool temperature of the fridge allows the cake to thaw evenly, preserving its texture and taste. Depending on the size and thickness of the cheesecake, this method can take anywhere from 6 to 24 hours. Thawing cheesecake in the refrigerator offers several benefits.
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 freeze a thawed cheesecake?
Leave it on a counter for 2-4 hours. Keep in mind that the bigger cheesecakes will take much longer to completely defrost as compared to smaller cheesecakes. As we have previously mentioned, it is possible to freeze an unbaked cheesecake, however, there are some extra things to consider when thawing it.
Can cheesecake be left out after thawing?
Never leave the cheesecake out for too long once it is thawed. Over-thawing can result in a soggy and mushy texture. Once the cheesecake is fully thawed, transfer it to the refrigerator if you’re not ready to serve it immediately. Ensure the cheesecake thaws evenly, both on the surface and throughout its thickness.