What Is Cheesecake and Why Is It So Popular?
Cheesecake is one of the most delicious and beloved desserts in the world, known for its rich flavor and smooth, creamy texture. Throughout history, this delightful dessert has evolved from simple early recipes to the more complex and modern versions we enjoy today. Today, cheesecake holds a special place on the menus of nearly all well-known cafés and restaurants around the world.
If you’re a baking enthusiast or want to learn how to make professional-quality cheesecakes, understanding its history, different variations, and the key techniques for preparing it correctly is essential.
Arsa Academy offers professional courses in pastry, chocolate making, cheesecake, whipped-cream cakes, cake decorating, and other confectionery skills, with official certification from the Technical & Vocational Training Organization.
In this article, we will fully explore the history, types, and proper methods of making cheesecake.
History of Cheesecake
The Origin of Cheesecake
Contrary to popular belief, cheesecake has a very ancient history. The earliest form of cheesecake dates back to ancient Greece around 4,000 years ago. At that time, a mixture of fresh cheese, honey, and flour was used to make a dessert similar to what we now recognize as cheesecake.
This early version was often prepared as an energy-boosting food for athletes participating in Olympic games. With the expansion of the Roman Empire, the cheesecake recipe spread to other regions, where each culture adapted it according to its own tastes.
The Evolution of Cheesecake Around the World
Over the centuries, cheesecake traveled across Europe and beyond, evolving into various styles based on local ingredients and culinary traditions:
- Europe: Cheesecakes baked with cream cheese and a biscuit crust became popular.
- Italy: Cheesecakes made with ricotta developed lighter and softer textures.
- Germany: German-style cheesecakes often had a firmer texture and milder sweetness.
- England: Some recipes included dried fruits such as raisins.
These regional adaptations eventually created a wide variety of cheesecake styles worldwide.
Cheesecake in Modern Culture and Cafés
European immigrants introduced cheesecake to America, where one of the most iconic versions—New York-style cheesecake—was developed in the 1920s. Made with a dense cream cheese base, this version is rich, smooth, and intensely flavorful.
Today, cheesecake is considered a classic dessert and is widely served in cafés, bakeries, and restaurants across the globe.
Types of Cheesecake
1. Classic (New York-Style) Cheesecake
One of the most famous styles, New York cheesecake is baked in the oven and made with cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and sometimes heavy cream. Its texture is dense yet creamy, with a pure, rich flavor.

2. No-Bake (Refrigerated) Cheesecake
A simpler cheesecake that requires no baking. A mixture of cream cheese, whipped cream, sugar, and sometimes gelatin is poured over a biscuit crust and chilled until set.

3. Chocolate Cheesecake
Perfect for chocolate lovers. Melted chocolate or cocoa powder is added to the filling, resulting in a rich, moist, chocolate-flavored cheesecake. It can be made either baked or no-bake and is often topped with chocolate ganache or chocolate shavings.

4. Fruit Cheesecake
A refreshing combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh fruit. Berries, mango, and other fruits may be mixed into the filling or used as a topping. Available in both baked and no-bake versions.

5. Café-Style Cheesecake
Modern café versions often feature trendy and creative flavors such as coffee, caramel, Oreo, or Nutella—designed especially for contemporary tastes.

Key Ingredients in Cheesecake
Cream Cheese
The heart of any cheesecake. High-quality, full-fat cream cheese creates a smooth and creamy texture. Low-fat or poor-quality cheese can cause graininess.

Biscuit Crust
Usually made with graham crackers, butter cookies, or chocolate biscuits like Oreo.

Butter
Mixed with crushed biscuits to form a firm crust.

Cream or Whipped Cream
Adds volume and lightness, especially in no-bake cheesecakes.
Tip: Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients. Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.

How to Make Cheesecake Properly
Before You Begin
- Bring all ingredients to room temperature.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal.
- Preheat the oven (for baked versions).
How to Make the Biscuit Crust
- Crush the biscuits (in a food processor or sealed bag).
- Mix with melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan firmly.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 175°C for baked cheesecakes, or chill for no-bake versions.
How to Make the Creamy Filling
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and continue mixing.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid incorporating air.
- Add cream, vanilla, or desired flavorings.
- Add chocolate, fruit purée, or other additions if needed.
Baking or Chilling
- Baked cheesecake: Bake at 150–160°C for 50–70 minutes. The center should still jiggle slightly.
- No-bake cheesecake: Chill for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Tips to Prevent Cracks in Cheesecake
- Use room-temperature ingredients.
- Do not overmix.
- Bake with steam (place a tray of hot water in the oven).
- Cool gradually with the oven door slightly open.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Reasons:
- Overmixing (air bubbles).
- Sudden temperature changes.
- No steam during baking.
- Overbaking.
Solution: Bake at a low temperature, use steam, and cool gradually.
Why is my cheesecake filling too soft?
- Insufficient chilling time.
- Too little gelatin in no-bake recipes.
- Underbaking.
Why is my biscuit crust falling apart?
- Not enough butter.
- Not pressed firmly.
- Not chilled long enough.
Why does my cheesecake taste too sharp or cheesy?
- Low-quality or expired cream cheese.
- Lack of flavoring (vanilla).
If you’re a cheesecake lover and want to learn how to make perfect, professional cakes, the online cheesecake course at Arsa Academy is a great choice.
In this course you will learn:
- All basic and advanced cheesecake techniques
- How to prevent cracks and achieve the perfect texture
- Professional decoration and presentation skills