A Sweet Quest: The Best Cheesecakes Around the World
- Le Monocle Voyageur
- Jan 26
- 3 min read
Cheesecake: a dessert so universally loved, it has transcended borders and evolved into countless delicious variations. Whether baked or no-bake, dense or airy, classic or experimental, cheesecake is a treat that has captured hearts (and taste buds) across the globe. Here’s a guide to some of the best cheesecakes from around the world, each offering its unique take on this beloved dessert.
1. New York-Style Cheesecake – New York, USA
The Classic Icon
The New York-style cheesecake is a rich, dense, and creamy masterpiece. Its graham cracker crust and velvety filling make it a timeless favourite.
Where to Try:
• Junior’s Cheesecake (Brooklyn): A landmark for cheesecake lovers since 1950.
• Eileen’s Special Cheesecake (Manhattan): Light, fluffy, and full of flavour.
2. Japanese Cheesecake – Osaka, Japan
The Jiggly Delight
Japanese cheesecake, or soufflé cheesecake, is light, airy, and subtly sweet. It’s famous for its fluffy texture and signature jiggle.
Where to Try:
• Rikuro’s Cheesecake (Osaka): Known for its freshly baked cheesecakes adorned with raisins on the base.
• Pablo (Multiple Locations): Offers molten-style cheesecakes with gooey centres.
3. Basque Burnt Cheesecake – San Sebastián, Spain
The Rustic Charmer
Originating in Spain’s Basque Country, this cheesecake is caramelized to perfection with a burnt top and creamy, custard-like center.
Where to Try:
• La Viña (San Sebastián): The birthplace of Basque burnt cheesecake, loved for its simplicity and depth of flavour.
4. German Käsekuchen – Germany
The Traditional Favourite
Made with quark (a type of fresh cheese), German Käsekuchen is lighter and tangier than its cream cheese counterparts, often flavoured with lemon.
Where to Try:
• Café Einstein Stammhaus (Berlin): A charming spot for a classic slice.
• Heinemann Patisserie (Düsseldorf): Known for its perfect balance of creaminess and zest.
5. Italian Ricotta Cheesecake – Italy
The Mediterranean Marvel
Italian cheesecake swaps cream cheese for ricotta, resulting in a lighter texture. It’s often flavoured with citrus zest, almonds, or candied fruit.
Where to Try:
• Pasticceria Marchesi (Milan): A luxurious spot for ricotta-based cheesecake.
• Pasticceria Giovanni Scaturchio (Naples): Try their cheesecake with a hint of limoncello.
6. Polish Sernik – Poland
The Comforting Classic
Sernik is a dense, crumbly cheesecake made with twaróg (Polish curd cheese), often enhanced with raisins or a chocolate glaze.
Where to Try:
• Blikle Café (Warsaw): A historic café offering traditional Polish sweets.
• Sowa Patisserie (Multiple Locations): Famous for its authentic sernik variations.
7. Swedish Ostkaka – Sweden
The Custard-Like Surprise
Swedish ostkaka, or “cheese cake,” is quite different from the modern cheesecake. It’s a custard-like dessert made with rennet, milk, and cream, often served with jam and whipped cream.
Where to Try:
• Gränna: Known as the ostkaka capital of Sweden, local cafés serve the finest versions.
• Vete-Katten (Stockholm): A cosy café offering traditional Swedish desserts.
8. French Fromage Blanc Cheesecake – France
The Sophisticated Treat
In France, cheesecake is often made with fromage blanc or mascarpone, giving it a silky texture and delicate flavour. It’s lighter and more refined than traditional versions.
Where to Try:
• Ladurée (Paris): Known for their elegant cheesecake creations.
• Pierre Hermé (Paris): For a gourmet twist on cheesecake.
9. Filipino Ube Cheesecake – Philippines
The Vibrant Delight
A modern twist on cheesecake, this vibrant purple dessert incorporates ube (purple yam), giving it a unique flavor and stunning appearance.
Where to Try:
• Wildflour Café + Bakery (Manila): Famous for its ube cheesecake with a creamy, rich texture.
• The Dessert Museum (Manila): Offers playful variations of Filipino-inspired cheesecakes.
10. South African Milk Tart Cheesecake – South Africa
The Creamy Fusion
Inspired by the traditional South African milk tart (melktert), this cheesecake variation blends creamy custard flavours with a biscuit base.
Where to Try:
• Charly’s Bakery (Cape Town): A hotspot for creative desserts with a local twist.
• Tasha’s (Multiple Locations): Known for their decadent milk tart-inspired cheesecake.
A Cheesecake for Every Taste
"From New York’s classic indulgence to Japan’s airy creation, every cheesecake tells a story of its origins and culture. Whether you’re a fan of rich, creamy slices or lighter, tangy versions, the world of cheesecake is as diverse as it is delicious."
Which one will you try first on your cheesecake adventure? Let us know your favourite!
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