National Cheesecake Day 2024: History, Recipes & Baking Tips

Here at the Old Farmer’s Almanac, we love a good reason to celebrate – especially when it involves delicious food. So, grab your fork and get ready to dig in as we explore the fascinating history of cheesecake, share some scrumptious recipes, and offer tips for creating the perfect cheesecake for your National Cheesecake Day festivities

When is National Cheesecake Day?

National Cheesecake Day is held each year on July 30. This year, National Cheesecake Day will be on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.
 

People around the world use this day as an excuse to indulge in a slice (or two) of their favorite cheesecake flavor, whether it’s a classic New York-style, a fruity creation, or something more decadent.

The History of Cheesecake

National Cheesecake Day is a relatively young holiday, established in 1985. However, cheesecake itself has a much longer history, dating back to ancient Greece! These early cheesecakes, called “plakous”  (meaning “flat mass”), were quite different from their modern counterparts. They were made with crumbled cheese mixed with flour and honey and then baked on a griddle. There’s even evidence that athletes in the first Olympic Games enjoyed these cheesecakes for energy!

Over the centuries, cheesecake has evolved and traveled the world, taking on new flavors and techniques in different cultures. From the ricotta-based cheesecakes of Italy to the quark cheesecakes of Germany, this dessert became a global phenomenon. 

The invention of cream cheese in the late 19th century revolutionized cheesecake. This new ingredient allowed for the smooth, creamy texture we associate with modern cheesecakes.  Cheesecake continued to evolve in the 20th century, with bakers experimenting with new flavors and techniques.

Classic and Creative: Recipes for Every Cheesecake Craving

The beauty of cheesecake lies in its versatility. Whether you’re a traditionalist who craves the smooth simplicity of a New York-style cheesecake or a flavor adventurer seeking something more unique, there’s a recipe out there for you. We have a treasure trove of cheesecake recipes to inspire your National Cheesecake Day baking… Here are a few to get you started:
 

• Classic New York-Style Cheesecake: This is the gold standard, the cheesecake all others are measured against. Our recipe ensures a perfectly creamy texture and a buttery graham cracker crust.
• Chocolate Cheesecake: Chocolate lovers will call this Chocolate Cheesecake intense—and it may be rated as your number one favorite! Make in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to eat!
• Almond Cheesecake: This is a great dessert option for people with gluten sensitivities—no worries about the exclusion of a traditional crust; the filling forms its own crust.
• Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: These luscious bars are a delicious twist on traditional cheesecake and pumpkin pie with a hint of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.

These are just a taste (pun intended) of what’s possible. With a little creativity, you can experiment with different fruits, spices, and even chocolate variations to create your own signature cheesecake.

Tips for Cheesecake Baking Perfection

So, you’ve picked out your perfect recipe … Now, let’s ensure your cheesecake creation is a success! Here are some helpful tips:

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh cream cheese, real vanilla extract, and high-quality fruits will make all the difference in the final flavor.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing can lead to a tough cheesecake. Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined.
• The water bath is your friend: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures even cooking.
• Let it cool completely: Resist the urge to dig in right away! Cheesecakes need time to set properly for the best texture and flavor.

With these tips and our delicious recipes, you’re well on your way to becoming a National Cheesecake Day champion! So, this July 30th, gather your friends and family, whip up a delightful cheesecake, and celebrate this delicious day together.

What is your favorite cheesecake recipe? Do you have any tips or tricks for making that PERFECT cheesecake? Tell us in the comments!