6 Cheesecake Brands Worth the Hype To Buy This National Cheesecake Day
Cheesecake is more than a dessert. It’s a love language. A creamy, tangy declaration of your taste (and culinary devotion). But when it comes to finding the best cheesecake brands, particularly on those busy days when baking from scratch is but a dream, grocery shelves offer plenty of choices. The real question is, which cheesecake should be your go-to swoon-worthy indulgence?
With a trusty fork in hand and too much enthusiasm for cheesecake research, I’ve dug into this dessert landscape to share the crème de la crème (pun intended). You’re welcome.
Why Store-Bought Cheesecake Deserves a Shot
Look, we all love a homemade cheesecake with its lovingly crusted graham cracker base and that smooth, satisfyingly creamy filling. Still, life doesn’t always grant us the time to play the devoted baker. Store-bought cheesecakes have stepped up their game in flavor and convenience.
From classic plain cheesecakes to berry-topped creations and even chocolate swirled indulgences, many cheesecake brands offer slices of happiness that are quick, delightful, and guiltlessly prepackaged. Plus, you don’t need a springform pan or the patience of a saint to enjoy them.
The Best Cheesecake Brands Worth a Taste Test
1. Kirkland Signature Cheesecake
If Costco’s cheesecakes were on a dating app, their bio would read, “Perfectly balanced crust, tangy filling, and vanilla frosting on the side. Swipe right for greatness.” This colossal delight not only satisfies the cheesecake craving, but it feeds your soul and your extended family (literally, it’s huge). Boasting a rich cream cheese filling with a salty, buttery graham cracker crust, Kirkland nails that balance between sweet and tangy. And the price? At $18.99, it’s a bargain for cheesecake fans everywhere. Costco for President.
2. Cheesecake Factory’s Original Cheesecake
Ah, yes, the Cheesecake Factory. Home to several thousand menu items and a cheesecake that has earned itself cult status. Their grocery store version holds to their principles with a velvety filling and an impressively rich graham cracker base. It’s creamy without being overwhelming, sweet but not cloying. However, that luxury comes at a higher price tag, so maybe save it for those special “I deserve something fabulous” dessert moments.
3. Sara Lee New York Style Cheesecake
Sara Lee’s cheesecake understands that not everyone wants frills or surprises. It’s like that reliable friend who’s always deliciously dependable. The filling is smooth with just the right amount of tang, and the golden top adds a subtle caramelized note. If only they put as much thought into the crust, which sadly crumbles at the first sign of a fork. Still, for a frozen option, it’s comforting and nostalgic.
4. Publix New York Style Cheesecake
Sweet heaven on a plate, Publix doesn’t mess around when it comes to dessert. Their cheesecake serves up a sugar-cookie-like crust that screams “bakery quality” and a tangy, creamy center that’s light but satisfying. At just $4.59 for two sizable slices, it’s the perfect balance of quality and cost.
5. Atlanta Cheesecake Company
Looking for variety? Atlanta Cheesecake Company has you covered. From decadent Turtle Cheesecake to their Raspberry swirls, this brand offers bold flavors that don’t skimp on richness. Don’t expect subtlety here; these cheesecakes scream indulgence (in all the best ways).
6. Simply Clean Label Black & White Cheesecake
This one’s for chocoholics. It’s like yin and yang in cheesecake form, with bold cocoa flavors on one side and creamy vanilla cheesecake on the other. It’s less sweet than other brands, which may be a pro or a con depending on your palate. If bittersweet is your jam, give this a try.
What Makes a Cheesecake Brand Stand Out?
If you’re wondering what separates the dreamy cheesecakes from their crumbly, disappointing cousins, here are the factors that make or break a good cheesecake brand:
- Texture: A cheesecake needs to be velvety, creamy, and smooth. Any gritty or rubbery textures are a hard no.
- Crust Ratio: The crust should be a supporting player, adding flavor and stability without overpowering the filling. It must also stay together when sliced. No one wants graham cracker confetti.
- Tanginess: A great cheesecake delivers the unmistakable tang of cream cheese, balanced perfectly with sweetness. It’s the little zing that hooks you.
- Simplicity at Its Best: Sure, flavors like raspberry or white chocolate can elevate your cheesecake adventure, but plain cheesecakes have a certain unpretentious charm. It’s the classic that never goes out of style.
Final Slice of Advice
If you’re scouring the freezer aisle or bakery shelves, make it a mission to try these cheesecake brands and decide which one satisfies your cheesecake cravings. Whether you’re a Kirkland purist, a Sara Lee loyalist, or a Cheesecake Factory enthusiast, it’s nice to know you don’t need a professional mixer or hours of baking to enjoy a little creamy dessert bliss.
Cheesecake brands are bringing their A-game, and we, dessert lovers, are all the better for it. Just don’t forget to save me a slice. Or not. That’s fine, too.
