Cheesecake Toppings

There’s nothing quite like indulging in a slice of creamy, decadent cheesecake. But what truly takes this classic dessert to the next level are the cheesecake toppings you choose.

No matter if you’re putting the finishing touches on a homemade cheesecake dessert or simply picking up a store-bought cheesecake for a party, the toppings for cheesecake are what truly make it special.

strawberry sauce in a jar.

In this guide, I’m going to break down the best cheesecake topping ideas, from fresh fruits to decadent sauces and crunchy additions. Whether you’re looking for something classic or want to try a creative twist, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to make your cheesecake a hit.

Fresh Fruit Toppings

Fresh fruit toppings are a classic choice that add brightness, color, and a burst of natural sweetness to your cheesecake.

  • Strawberries: Juicy and sweet, strawberries are among the best cheesecake toppings you can choose. Drizzle some over your dessert using our Strawberry Sauce Recipe, which also makes great leftovers for banana splits and pancakes.
  • Blueberries: Plump and slightly tart, whole blueberries or a homemade blueberry compote pair beautifully with the creamy texture of cheesecake.
Strawberry Sauce recipe on the stove.
  • Raspberries: Try dusting them with a bit of powdered sugar for an elegant and simple finishing touch.
  • Mixed Berries: Combine strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a colorful and flavorful topping.
mixed berries from leftover fruit salad are a great cheesecake topping idea.
Add fresh berry fruit salad to top of cheesecake.

Preparation Tips

  • Glazing: Lightly glaze your fresh fruit toppings with warmed jelly or apricot jam.
  • Use dip toppings: Most cream cheese dips have a glaze that dumps over the top. Its easy to make the topping for those dips and repurpose for cheesecake. For example, try this strawberry cranberry topping or our popular cranberry cream cheese dip topping, both would work amazing on fall cheesecakes.
cranberry pecan topping.

Canned Fruit Toppings

I love to use canned fruit recipes. Canned fruit pie fillings for cheesecake are a convenient option, especially when fresh fruit is out of season or when you’re short on time. It also is great for travel because you can transport the fruit in the can.

Best Canned Fruit Options

  • Canned Peaches: To prepare, drain the peaches well and slice them thinly before arranging on top. For added flavor, brush with a bit of the reserved syrup mixed with a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract.
  • Canned Pineapple: Whether you use rings, chunks, or crushed pineapple, ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess moisture. You can also caramelize the pineapple pieces lightly in a skillet with some brown sugar.
  • Canned Cherries: Classic and timeless, canned cherry pie filling is one of the easiest no prep cheesecake toppings to use. The sweet syrup cascades beautifully over the cheesecake. I use canned cherries in other recipes like Cherry Cheesecake Dip or the other popular cherry cobbler recipe as well.
cherry pie filling on a spoon
canned pie toppings

Preparation Tips

  • Proper Draining: If in water or juice, always drain canned fruit thoroughly to avoid any moisture that can make your cheesecake soggy. You can use a colander and let the fruit sit for a few minutes to ensure it’s well-drained.
  • Enhancing Flavor: Consider reducing the canned fruit syrup on the stove with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to create a rich glaze that can be drizzled over the fruit-topped cheesecake.
canned fruit drained in a bowl.

Creamy Toppings

Creamy toppings add an extra layer of richness and smoothness to your cheesecake.

Delicious Creamy Options

  • Whipped Cream: Light, airy, and classic, whipped cream provides a fluffy contrast to dense cheesecake. For added flavor, try infusing your whipped cream with vanilla, almond extract, or even a splash of liqueur like Bailey’s or Amaretto. Pipe it onto your slices using a star tip for a professional and elegant look. You can see this in action on our Lemonade Pie and Deviled Cheesecake Strawberries recipe.
  • Sour Cream: Mix sour cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract, then spread a thin layer over your baked cheesecake and return it to the oven for a few minutes to set.
whipped cream cheese in a jar.
  • Chocolate Ganache: Chocolate ganache brings a luxurious touch to your cheesecake. To make, simply combine equal parts warm cream and chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth. Once cool, pour over your cheesecake. OR try our homemade Hot Fudge Recipe for a velvety chocolate sauce.
  • Caramel Sauce: Sweet and buttery, caramel sauce is always a hit. Drizzle warm caramel over your cheesecake and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt. You can make it homemade fairly easily or grab it already made like I did in our caramel apple cheesecake dip.
hot fudge being poured over vanilla ice cream.

Preparation Tips

  • Temperature Matters: When adding creamy toppings, ensure they are close to room temperature before applying them to avoid causing cracks in your cheesecake.
  • Layering: Don’t be afraid to layer your creamy toppings with other toppings.

Crunchy Toppings

For those who crave a bit of texture, crunchy cheesecake toppings are the way to go.

Tasty Crunchy Options

  • Granola: A sprinkle of your favorite granola that crunch and sweetness at the same time. For best results, crush the granola into smaller, bite-sized pieces before sprinkling over your cheesecake.
  • Crushed Cookies: Crushed cookies such as graham crackers, Oreos, gingersnaps, or vanilla wafers make for great toppings. You can simply sprinkle them on top or press them into the edges for a decorative and tasty border.
  • Chocolate Shavings: Use a vegetable peeler to create delicate chocolate curls from a chocolate bar and scatter them over your cheesecake.
  • Toasted Coconut Flakes: Lightly toasted coconut pairs especially well with tropical fruit toppings like pineapple or mango.
  • Pretzel Bits: For a sweet and salty combination, sprinkle crushed pretzel pieces over caramel or chocolate-topped cheesecake.
crushed vanilla wafers.

Preparation Tips

  • Freshness: To maintain their crunchiness, add these toppings just before serving your cheesecake.
  • Flavor Pairing: Consider the flavor of your cheesecake when selecting crunchy toppings. For example, pair chocolate shavings with chocolate ganache or combine toasted coconut with tropical fruits.

Adding Nuts to Cheesecake

Nuts bring a rich, earthy flavor to your cheesecake.

Nut Options

  • Toasted Almonds: Sliced or slivered almonds, lightly toasted, pairs well with fruit toppings, especially berries and cherries.
  • Candied Walnuts: Sweet and crunchy, make them at home with this Candied Walnuts Recipe.
  • Candied Pecans: With their caramelized coating and hint of spice, candied pecans are perfect for adding a seasonal touch, especially during the holidays. Try making them with this Candied Pecans Recipe. They complement creamy toppings like whipped cream or caramel sauce beautifully.
  • Hazelnuts: Chopped and toasted hazelnuts bring a rich, buttery flavor that pairs excellently with chocolate-based toppings. Consider combining them with a Nutella drizzle for an indulgent treat.
homemade sugared pecans with cinnamon sugar laying out to try on baking sheet.

Preparation Tips

  • Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and crunch. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned.
  • Keep candied nuts fresh and crunchy by storing them in an airtight container until ready to use.
  • Spice up your candied nuts by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper during preparation for an extra layer of flavor.
homemade cinnamon sugared candied pecans in a bowl.

Pro Tips and Variations

Mixing and Matching

  • Seasonal Themes: Tailor your cheesecake toppings to the season. Use fresh berries and citrus in the summer, spiced apples and pears in the fall, cranberries and peppermint in the winter, and tropical fruits like mango and pineapple in the spring.

Time-Saving Ideas – It doesn’t have to be homemade

  • Pre-made Sauces: Utilize high-quality store-bought sauces like caramel, chocolate, or fruit syrups when short on time. Explore options in the ice cream, dessert, and coffee aisles for a variety of flavors.

Preparation and Presentation is Everything

  • Advance Prep: Prepare your toppings in advance to save time and reduce stress when assembling your cheesecake. Most fruit sauces and compotes can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Garnishing: Pay attention to presentation by adding finishing touches like fresh mint leaves, citrus zest, or edible flowers.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve your cheesecake with a variety of topping options on the side, allowing guests to customize their slices.
edible flowers are great toppings.

FAQs

What are the best toppings for cheesecake?

  • The best cheesecake toppings depend on your personal taste and the occasion. Classic options include fresh fruits like strawberries and blueberries, sauces like chocolate ganache and caramel, nuts and cookie crumbs.
quartered strawberries in a mixing bowl.

Can I use frozen fruit for cheesecake toppings?

  • Absolutely! Frozen fruits can be a great alternative when fresh fruits are not available. Simply thaw them and use as is, or cook them down with a bit of sugar to create a delicious fruit compote perfect for topping your cheesecake.

How do I prevent my cheesecake toppings from making the cake soggy?

  • To prevent sogginess, ensure all fruit toppings, especially canned and thawed frozen fruits, are well-drained before using. Add crunchy toppings like nuts and granola just before serving to maintain texture.

What toppings work best with a no-bake cheesecake?

  • No-bake cheesecakes pair well with lighter toppings like fresh fruits, whipped cream, and fruit sauces. Since the texture is usually softer, avoid heavy or very warm toppings that could cause the cheesecake to lose its shape.
forkful of no bake cheesecake in a cupcake tin.

How can I make my cheesecake look more professional?

Pay attention to presentation by using piping bags for whipped cream, arranging fruits carefully, and adding garnishes like mint leaves or chocolate curls.

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