14 Different Types of Cheesecake and Recipes

If you’re as obsessed with thick, creamy, dense cheesecake as I am, you’ll want to bookmark this list of the different types of cheesecake – for science!

Because it’s not all just sweetened cream cheese and Graham Cracker crumbs!

Did you know there are different types of cheesecake? And I’m not just talking about flavors here.

I’m talking about different styles of cheesecake from around the world.

We all know and love the traditional New York-style dessert. But you haven’t lived until you’ve tried a decadent Basque cheesecake!

14 Delicious Types of Cheesecake for Dessert Lovers

1. Junior’s New York Style Cheesecake

A classic NYC-style cheesecake is always a yes for me.

It’s simple and full of sweet and tangy flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love a good ol’ creamy cheesecake?

Junior’s is a little different, in that it calls for thin sponge cake instead of Graham Crackers.

And while it isn’t crunchy, I know you’ll love it. 

This is the perfect base for all kinds of toppings too. So slather it in caramel sauce, fruity compote, or just enjoy it as is.

You really can’t go wrong!

2. Philadelphia Cheesecake

Philadelphia cheesecakes are another super popular type of cheesecake, and they’re pretty similar to the recipe above.

Of course, they require the use of Philadelphia cream cheese. And they don’t usually call for sour cream and/or heavy cream like many NYC cheesecakes do.

I think they’re lighter, with a stronger tang from the cream cheese. But just as addictive!

This Oreo version is one of my faves. I mean, how can you beat cookies and cream, amirite?

3. No-Bake Cheesecake

The hardest part about cheesecake is waiting for it to bake and set.

But if you opt for a no-bake cheesecake, you only have to wait for it to set – which is still tough but doable!

Silky smooth, tangy, rich, and delightful dense, this cheesecake has it all. Just mix a few simple ingredients together, let it set, and enjoy. 

And again, you can top it with anything you like.

Salted caramel and whipped cream will make you swoon. But you can keep it healthy(ish) with fresh fruits if you prefer.

4. Ricotta Cheesecake

Ricotta cheesecake is the Italian cousin of the cheesecake you already know and love. 

It’s made with ricotta (obviously) and cream cheese, making it a little sweeter.

And instead of the dense cheesecake you’re used to, this has a light, airy texture. 

Use Graham Crackers if you like, but any cookies work for the base. For example, amaretti or biscotti would make it extra Italian! 

Top this cheesecake with fresh berries for an irresistible treat. 

5. Japanese Cotton Cheesecake

Where New York-style cheesecake is thick, dense, and creamy, Japanese cheesecake is light, fluffy, and wonderfully wiggly.

In fact, you might not even think it’s a cheesecake when you take that first bite.

But with classic ingredients like cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream, there’s no denying this one!

Make it once, and I know you’ll fall in love.

6. Vegan Cheesecake

Vegan cheesecake is just as luxurious, rich, and creamy as any cheesecake you’ve ever had.

That said, it’s typically not quite as velvety smooth. That’s because it almost always contains soaked cashews.

Of course, silken tofu makes a terrific alternative.

But want to know the secret to the best, silkiest, creamiest vegan cheesecake around?

Vegan cream cheese.

It has the same sweet and tangy flavor and the silkiest texture. Mix in some vanilla and dairy-free milk, and you’ll be shocked at how good this is. 

7. Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake

Chocolate cheesecake isn’t exactly a “type of cheesecake” but as you can see, it doesn’t look like the others on the list.

Where most cheesecake recipes focus on that sweet cream cheese filling, chocolate cheesecake is impossibly decadent and, well, chocolatey.

And thanks to this recipe being loaded with Godiva chocolate, it’s so addictive. This will have any chocolate lover begging for another slice. 

8. Savory Cheesecake

Savory cheesecakes have been around for a while, but they’ve been gaining in popularity recently.

Some are uber cheesy with meats, and others are light and loaded with veggies.

But this one is my all-time fave!

And if jalapeño poppers are your go-to app, it’ll be yours too.

9. Foolproof Basque Burnt Cheesecake

Don’t let the name fool you – this Basque “burnt” cheesecake is the stuff of dreams.

The top is dark, yes, but it brings so much incredible caramelized flavor to the dessert.

And while it’s not pristine, that rustic look is signature to the Basque – cracks and all!

With no crust, all you get in every bite is pure, unadulterated cheesecake yumminess.

10. Cheesecake Crumb Cake

Here’s a stunning two-in-one recipe I know you’ll love.

It’s a fun fusion of blueberry crumb bars and cheesecake, and I’m so here for it. In fact, I made it just last weekend – and it’s already gone!

Between the shortbread-like crust and fresh fruit, it’s super hard to resist. Of course, feel free to use any other fruit you like!

But that combination of creamy cheesecake and crumble topping is what’ll leave you speechless.

11. Cheesecake Cake

Cheesecake cakes are just what you think they are: layers of cheesecake and sponge made into one spectacular cake.

Red velvet is probably the most iconic because the contrast between white cheesecake and red cake is just to die for.

But you can use pretty much any cake you like! Carrot cake and chocolate are my faves, but go nuts!

Cover it with frosting and hide the cheesecake filling if you really want to impress. It’ll be a wonderful surprise when you cut inside!

12. Chicago-Style Cheesecake

Chicago-style cheesecake is a must for every cheesecake lover. It’s softer, fluffier, and even more moist than a traditional NYC cheesecake. 

So what’s the difference?

Well, Chicago-style cheesecake has extra cream cheese. You heard that right! More of that tangy, creamy deliciousness. 

This cheesecake still has a crispy Graham Cracker crust, so there are no crazy ingredients needed.

But you’ll add more cream cheese, extra egg yolks, and heavy cream. So yeah, it’s about as rich as it gets!

Make this Chicago-style cheesecake for any occasion, and it will quickly disappear. 

13. Austrian Cheesecake (Topfentorte)

Like the cheesecake cake above, this recipe features layers of light sponge with a rich and creamy filling.

However, this version calls for a mousse-like filling which resembles no-bake cheesecake.

That means it’s super airy and light rather than dense.

Still, it’s such a fun twist on the classic cheesecake and one that needs nothing more than a light dusting of powdered sugar to finish.

14. Swedish Cheesecake

If you’re a true cheesecake fan, you have to try this Swedish cheesecake. Traditionally known as “ostkaka”, it’s always a delight. 

It’s not as sweet as an American cheesecake but has just as much flavor.

It also has a different texture. Swedish cheesecake is a lot lighter and fluffier. And since it’s made with cottage cheese and almonds, it’s definitely different.

Although it’s not the silky cheesecake you’re used to, it’s deliciously cake-like. 

Serve this cheesecake with fresh strawberries or your fruit of choice.