Homemade cheesecake is an impressive and luxurious dessert, but it’s also time-consuming to make and there are often leftovers. Can you freeze cheesecake to make it last longer or to help cut down on holiday dessert prep? For more intel, we consulted Amy Emberling, managing partner of Zingerman's Bakehouse in Ann Arbor, Michigan which specializes in shipping frozen pastries and chef Ian Coogan, culinary director of Motel Morris in New York City (and formerly at ABC Kitchen and Hudson Yards Catering in NYC).

Can You Freeze Cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze cheesecake. “Cheesecake freezes really well,” Emberling says. “Foods with a lot of fat in them tend to freeze well and cheesecake certainly fits that bill. Slices and whole cake freeze equally well. It's all in the wrapping!” While you can freeze cheesecake whole or in slices, Coogan recommends freezing cheesecakes whole, as more surface area increases the chance of freezer burn.

You can also make frozen cheesecake desserts, such as Frozen Cheesecake on a Stick.

How Long Does Cheesecake Last In the Refrigerator?

Cheesecake lasts for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator, per USDA food safety recommendations. “A lot depends on the temperature of your fridge and how often you’re taking items in and out,” Coogan says. “Keeping things tightly wrapped or sealed goes a long way, but using your best judgment based on how it looks and smells is always crucial.”

Because cheesecake easily absorbs other flavors and odors in the fridge, Emberling recommends storing the wrapped cheesecake in an airtight container as an added measure to keep cheesecake fresh.

The Best Way to Freeze Cheesecake

Here, Emberling and Coogan share a step-by-step process for freezing cheesecake. Stored this way, cheesecake will last in the freezer for 3 to 6 months. Keep in mind that the longer the cheesecake is frozen, the more likely the texture and quality will be affected. For best results, eat the cheesecake within a month of freezing.

Step 1: Cool the Cheesecake

Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Chill the Cheesecake

Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so that it sets and the exterior firms up.

Step 3: Remove the Toppings

If you’re planning to top the cheesecake, Emberling recommends doing so when you’re ready to eat it. If the cheesecake already has toppings, remove them and freeze separately.

Step 4: Prep the Cheesecake for Wrapping

Transfer the cheesecake to a cake board, freezer-safe plate or cardboard round, or leave the cheesecake on the metal bottom of the pan. This will give the cheesecake enough support to help it maintain its integrity.

Step 5: Wrap the Cheesecake

First, tightly wrap the cheesecake and board with plastic wrap. Second, tightly wrap the plastic-wrapped cheesecake and board with a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. If you’d like to freeze the cheesecake in portions, cut the cheesecake into slices and tightly wrap the individual slices with plastic wrap and then with foil.

Step 6: Place the Cheesecake In an Airtight Storage Container

Place the wrapped cheesecake (or slices) in an airtight storage container or a disposable plastic freezer bag. Be sure to label the container with the date and contents.

Step 7: Label and Freeze the Cheesecake

Put the cheesecake in the coldest part of the freezer and away from other items to keep it intact while freezing.

For more tips on freezing cheesecake, check out our primer How to Freeze Cake. Plus, if you’re making lots of cheesecakes for the holiday or stocking up on cream cheese on sale, read our guide Can You Freeze Cream Cheese?.

How to Thaw Frozen Cheesecake

The best way to defrost cheesecake is in the refrigerator overnight in its packaging. A whole cheesecake will be defrosted by morning and slices of cheesecake will defrost in a few hours. Once the cheesecake is fully defrosted, add the toppings. Coogan advises waiting until the cheesecake is fully thawed before slicing. “Be sure to use a knife that has been warmed under hot running water, cleaning and reheating the knife between slices,” he says.

Related Links:

Creamy, Dreamy Cheesecake Recipes

19 Decadent Fall Cheesecakes for Your Thanksgiving Table

Our Official List of the Best Food Network Kitchen Desserts