There are so many different flavor combinations and toppings that you can choose from, and they’re all delicious! Plus, you can make this smooth and creamy dish beforehand and store it for a later date. Cheesecake is a dessert that can take some time to make, so if you want to be super prepared for a birthday celebration, potluck, or dinner party, you can make your cheesecake up to three months in advance and freeze it! Luckily, freezing your cheesecake doesn’t change its quality or texture, so you’ll have a perfectly prepared dessert whenever you want. Read on for the best way to properly store, freeze, and thaw your cheesecake.
Why You Should Freeze Cheesecake
There’s a few reasons why freezing cheesecake can be a great idea. As I mentioned above, being prepared for a future gathering is one reason to freeze this delightful dessert. It can be defrosted overnight, so even if you find out about an event at the last-minute, you’ll still be able to provide a gorgeous treat for the party. Another reason to freeze your cheesecake is to make it more dense. If you prefer a dense, rich cake, like a New York style cheesecake, keeping it frozen will do the trick! Plus it reduces the likelihood of the ingredients separating. If you like light and fluffy cheesecakes, then maybe reconsider freezing it.
How to Freeze Cheesecake
If you are freezing leftovers to enjoy later, be sure to take off any and all toppings. If left on, they will make the cheesecake soggy. Step 1: If you are freezing a cheesecake you’ve made at home, the first step is to chill your cake. Most recipes suggest chilling your cheesecake anyway, so go ahead and follow your recipe. Usually leaving it to cool at room temperature for about a half hour is suggested. Then put your cheesecake in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours. Step 2: The next step is to consider whether you want to freeze your cheesecake whole or sliced. If you want a showstopping, complete dessert for your guests, then don’t slice it up. It will freeze just as well either way, so it’s entirely up to you. If you’re freezing leftovers, then individual slices will make it easier for you to have your cheesecake as a quick snack whenever you want. Another option is to slice it up, put wax paper in between the slices, and then put it back together as a round cake. Step 3: Any way you choose, you need to wrap your cheesecake, or cheesecake slices, in both plastic wrap and foil. I also recommend putting it into an airtight container as well, such as a large Tupperware or a heavy-duty freezer-safe Ziploc bag. Another suggestion to help the cheesecake maintain its shape is to freeze it atop a coated cardboard round like they do at professional bakeries. You can also make mini cheesecakes in a muffin pan. This is great for parties so no one has to slice the cake up. Mini cheesecakes are ready to serve and can be eaten in just a few bites. Plus, your guests get to sample a variety of flavors. Too much fun! Freeze these the same way, wrapped in plastic and foil.
How Long Does Cheesecake Last in the Freezer?
Many store-bought cheesecakes are intended to be frozen, so for those, read the label for how long the manufacturers think it will be safe in the freezer, or simply check the expiration date. For homemade cheesecakes, around 2 to 3 months is the safest bet. After 3 months, the chance of freezer burn or a change in taste or texture increases. It’s still safe to eat for 6 to 8 months, but any longer than that, you’d really be pushing your luck. As texture and quality will start to deteriorate.
How to Thaw Cheesecake
The best way to thaw your cheesecake is to transfer it directly from the freezer to the refrigerator. Let it thaw overnight for the ideal consistency. Don’t ever put your whole cheesecake in the oven or microwave to thaw, this could make it melt or ruin that thick, rich consistency everyone loves. If you’re in a hurry and simply can’t wait, put individual slices in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. Once your cheesecake is thawed, eat it within 2 days to prevent it from spoiling. I don’t see that being a problem though. With a treat this decadent and creamy, it surely won’t last long!
Tips on Freezing Cheesecake
If you make your cheesecake for no specific event and worry about forgetting it in the back of your freezer, I suggest adding it to your phone’s calendar. That way when it’s getting close to that 4-6 week window, you’ll remember to pull it out and enjoy it before it spoils!Refrigerating your cheesecake is a good option if you’re going to eat it within 5 to 7 days. Your cheesecake should be kept cold anyway, so all the dairy and other ingredients don’t go bad.Don’t be tempted to freeze your store-bought cheesecake in the container it comes in. It won’t be airtight and your cake will be at risk of freezer burn. Be sure to label your cheesecake before it goes in the freezer. This will help you remember how long it will last and when it will be best to defrost. The flavor and texture of a cheesecake is almost always better the day after you’ve made it. Therefore, it might be a good idea to keep your cheesecake chilling in the fridge overnight before freezing, to maximize its delicious-ness.If you want to freeze a whole cheesecake in slices, try freezing it uncovered for about an hour, then cut it and wrap it for long-term freezing. This will ensure the slices are clean and neat and there’s no worry of your cake crumbling or falling apart. For clean, even slices, dip the knife into hot water just before slicing.
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