The Absolute Best Way To Freeze Cheesecake

Cheesecake is one dessert that never seems to go out of style. A crowd-pleaser for decades, whether it's a no-bake strawberry cheesecake or a trendy burnt Basque, its luscious texture is hard to beat in the realm of dairy-based desserts. Although it's unlikely you'll be stuck with leftovers, sometimes the unthinkable does happen. That's why we're breaking down the absolute best way to freeze cheesecake.

Cheesecake is often (but not always) constructed in layers. At its base is a crust made with crushed graham crackers, cookies, or cake, followed by a thick and creamy layer of cheese, eggs, and sugar, which are usually topped with fruit, chocolate, or anything else the baker wishes to add. Sweet with a delicately tangy finish, maybe it's for this peculiarity that cheesecake has been a favorite since Roman times dating as far back as 160 BC (via Food & Wine Ireland)!

Given that a rich cheesecake can be challenging to finish without company, rest assured that it can be frozen and enjoyed another day. That said, Allrecipes reports that denser varieties like New York-style cheesecakes freeze better as they're less likely to separate than the lighter or whipped versions. Moreover, cheesecakes made with full fat dairy ingredients will also freeze with ease, notes Nigella — not to mention that it will make for an even tastier treat. But what is the best way to freeze that cheese?

First things first, letting a baked cheesecake completely cool is key, otherwise this can prevent the cheesecake from setting. After cooling at room temperature, Simply Recipes recommends letting the cheesecake cool in the fridge to help it set and fully chill — doing this means that the quality of your cake won't be compromised. 

Once fully chilled, you can decide whether to keep the cheesecake whole or freeze in slices. To freeze a whole cheesecake, place the cake on a dish or cardboard round before covering in plastic wrap, then again in foil. As for slices, the same principle of double wrapping applies. 

Despite the fact that the frozen cheesecake can last up to six months, the FDA explains that quality can start to be compromised after just three months in the freezer. For however long you keep it, when you do decide to eat your frozen cheesecake, just thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours, before adding toppings like fruit, chocolate, candy and whipped cream. Voilà, your frozen cheesecake will taste like it was freshly made!