Carrot Cake Cheesecake

If your favorite part of carrot cake is the decadent cream cheese frosting, this carrot cake cheesecake may just be your dream dessert. It features a classic carrot cake base with a thick layer of rich, silky cheesecake on top. Of all the cheesecake recipes and carrot recipes, this is the best of both for the spring season!

The key to this dessert is to par-bake the carrot cake layer before adding the cream cheese mixture so both layers finish baking at the same time. Be sure to pour the cheesecake mixture slowly and evenly over the carrot cake in your springform pan, starting around the edges, so the cake doesn't sink in the middle. And if you want to make it extra pretty, line the perimeter of the cake with pecan halves just before serving. Make this genius mashup the star of your spread of Easter desserts and no one will have to choose favorites.

What's the quickest way to soften cream cheese?

Softened cream cheese whips up marvelously smooth and creamy resulting in a lump-free cheesecake. If you forget to set cream cheese out at room temperature ahead of time, try one of our foolproof methods for how to soften cream cheese on the countertop, in warm water, or in the microwave.

Is oil or butter better for carrot cake?

Butter is undeniably delicious, oil is the answer here. In this recipe, the carrot cake layer is made with oil for a moist and tender cake. Butter can cause a cake to bake up firmer and tougher.

Do you have to use a water bath for carrot cake cheesecake?

Nope! Many cheesecake recipes will instruct you to bake the cheesecake in a water bath for even cooking and to prevent cracks. That extra step is not necessary for this recipe, though. The cheesecake layer bakes up perfectly atop the carrot cake and turns out smooth, creamy, and crack-free.

How can you tell when cheesecake is done?

Cheesecake should jiggle just slightly in the center (it will continue to set up as it cools). If left to bake until fully set, the cheesecake will be a bit too dry.

How do you keep cheesecake from cracking?

Cheesecake tends to crack when it's cooled too quickly which means you should never take it straight from the oven to the fridge or freezer. Let it cool completely at room temperature, then pop it into the refrigerator to chill overnight.

Can carrot cake cheesecake be made ahead of time?

It sure can! This cake needs at least eight hours to chill in the fridge before slicing, but you can bake it up to three days in advance if you'd rather get a head start. Just wait until the cake has completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap placing it in the fridge.

Can you freeze carrot cake cheesecake?

Yes, this dessert freezes well. After the cake has chilled in the fridge for at least 8 hours, transfer it to a cardboard round, freezer-safe plate, or keep it on the bottom round of the springform pan. Wrap the cake in a layer of plastic, then a layer of foil and freeze for up to one month. Let the cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. You can also freeze individual slices of cake, wrapped in plastic and foil, or placed in an airtight container.

How do you slice cheesecake?

For the cleanest slice, run a sharp kitchen knife under hot water or dip it in a pitcher filled with hot water. Dry it on a kitchen towel, then slice. Wipe the knife clean after each slice and continue dipping in water, drying, and slicing.