If you’ve ever stood in the dessert aisle, stared at cheesecakes, and wondered, “What’s the deal with French cheesecake versus the regular kind?” — you’re not alone. Cheesecake is one of those desserts that’s both universally loved and endlessly debated. With all the variations, it’s easy to get confused. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between French cheesecake and what we’ll call “regular” cheesecake, diving into everything from ingredients to texture to baking methods. By the end, you’ll be ready to impress your friends with your cheesecake knowledge or pick the perfect slice for your taste buds.
Table of Contents
What Exactly Is French Cheesecake?
Let’s start with the basics. French cheesecake is a bit of a misnomer because there isn’t one single type. Instead, it refers to cheesecakes influenced by French culinary techniques or ingredients. The most common variety is gâteau au fromage blanc, a light, fluffy cheesecake made with fromage blanc, a fresh French cheese.
Unlike the dense, rich cheesecakes many of us know and love, French cheesecake leans on subtle flavors and airy textures. Think of it as the ballerina of the cheesecake world—light on its feet but still captivating.
Key Ingredients in French Cheesecake
- Fromage blanc or cream cheese: Fromage blanc is the star. It’s tangy, creamy, and way lighter than traditional cream cheese. If you can’t find it in your local store, crème fraîche or Greek yogurt are common substitutes.
- Egg whites: Whipped egg whites are often folded into the batter, giving the cake its signature fluffiness.
- Sugar and vanilla: Like all cheesecakes, French cheesecake isn’t overly sweet. The sugar-to-cream ratio is just enough to highlight the tang of the cheese.
- Thin or absent crust: In many cases, there’s no crust at all, or it’s incredibly thin—usually made from crushed biscuits or pâte sablée.
What Is Regular Cheesecake?
Ah, regular cheesecake—the dessert most of us grew up eating at diners or family gatherings. When people in the U.S. think of cheesecake, they’re probably picturing New York-style cheesecake, which is one of the most popular varieties. But regular cheesecake can also include other styles like Chicago-style, Italian, or even no-bake.
How to Make French Cheesecake: Step-by-Step Guide
Making French cheesecake is simpler than you might think! Follow these steps for a dessert that’s light, flavorful, and undeniably French.
Gather the Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a classic French cheesecake:
- 2 cups of fromage blanc (or a mix of cream cheese and Greek yogurt)
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of one lemon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for a firmer texture)
- Optional: a thin crust made from crushed biscuits or pâte sablée
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch springform pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. If you’re using a crust, press it into the bottom of the pan and refrigerate it while you prepare the filling.
Make the Batter
- Whisk the egg yolks and sugar: In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until pale and creamy. This step ensures the sugar dissolves completely and gives the cheesecake its smooth texture.
- Add the fromage blanc: Gradually add the fromage blanc (or your substitute), mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and flour (if using).
Whip the Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. The key here is to go slowly and make sure no yolks sneak into the whites; even a little fat can prevent them from whipping properly.
Fold the Egg Whites Into the Batter
Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the cheese mixture. Use a spatula and a gentle hand to avoid deflating the air in the whites. This step is what gives French cheesecake its signature light and airy texture.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. If you’re worried about cracks or uneven baking, place the pan in a larger roasting dish filled with hot water to create a water bath (bain-marie). This helps maintain an even temperature and keeps the cheesecake moist.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Avoid overbaking, as it can cause cracks and a denser texture. Let the cheesecake cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar before transferring it to the fridge.
Serve It Up
French cheesecake is best served chilled, ideally after a few hours in the fridge to set fully. Dust it with powdered sugar or top it with fresh berries for an elegant finish. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a drizzle of honey or a dollop of crème fraîche on the side is a beautiful touch.
Why French Cheesecake Is Worth the Effort
Making French cheesecake takes a little patience, especially with the egg whites and water bath, but the results are absolutely worth it. The texture is unlike anything else—light, creamy, and almost ethereal. Plus, its subtle flavor means it pairs beautifully with just about any topping, from a dollop of raspberry coulis to a simple sprig of mint.
Key Ingredients in Regular Cheesecake
- Cream cheese: This is the backbone of most American-style cheesecakes. It’s rich, tangy, and creates that dense, creamy texture we all crave.
- Heavy cream or sour cream: These add moisture and richness. Sour cream gives an extra tang, while heavy cream smooths out the texture.
- Graham cracker crust: Regular cheesecake almost always has a crust, and in the U.S., that means graham crackers. It’s buttery, crumbly, and the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
- Egg yolks: Yolks help bind the mixture, creating a firm, custard-like texture when baked.
Pairings for a Complete Breakfast Experience
Pair your French cheesecake with these recipes for a balanced and satisfying breakfast spread:
- Homemade Egg Drop Sandwich: A savory counterpoint to the creamy cheesecake.
- Banana and Cream Oatmeal: A warm and comforting companion to the cool cheesecake.delightful crunch.
French cheesecake is not only a show-stopping breakfast centerpiece but also a versatile dessert. Its creamy richness pairs beautifully with fresh fruits, making it the perfect choice for any occasion.
Texture: Fluffy vs. Dense
If you take a bite of French cheesecake, you’ll notice it’s incredibly airy. This is thanks to the whipped egg whites and the lighter fromage blanc. It almost melts in your mouth, with a texture closer to mousse than cake.
Regular cheesecake, on the other hand, is unapologetically dense and creamy. A good New York cheesecake feels like a rich, indulgent cloud. It’s all about that thick, custardy consistency that leaves you feeling satisfied after just one slice (or maybe two).
Baking Techniques: Low and Slow vs. Fast and Light
Here’s where things get a little technical. French cheesecakes are often baked at a lower temperature or in a water bath (bain-marie) to prevent browning and cracking. Some versions aren’t baked at all but are instead set in the fridge, giving them an almost soufflé-like texture.
Regular cheesecakes, especially New York-style, are baked at a higher temperature for part of the time to achieve that iconic browned top. They’re also much sturdier, which makes them ideal for adding heavy toppings like berries, chocolate, or caramel.
Crust or No Crust?
A big difference between French and regular cheesecakes is the crust—or lack thereof. French cheesecakes often skip the crust entirely, letting the filling shine. If there is a crust, it’s usually very thin and subtle.
Regular cheesecakes embrace the crust, especially the graham cracker variety. It’s crumbly, sweet, and provides a buttery base that contrasts beautifully with the filling. Some styles even go for chocolate cookie crusts or shortbread bases.
Flavor Profiles: Subtle vs. Decadent
French cheesecake is all about subtlety. It’s not overly sweet, and the cheese’s natural tang is the main flavor. You might find hints of lemon or vanilla, but they’re delicate.
Regular cheesecake? It’s bold, rich, and often loaded with extra flavors. From chocolate swirls to pumpkin spice, regular cheesecakes are like a dessert playground. New York-style cheesecakes, in particular, have a strong cream cheese flavor that holds up against any topping.
Presentation: Rustic Elegance vs. Decadent Showstopper
French cheesecakes often look simple and elegant. They might be dusted with powdered sugar or topped with fresh fruit, but they’re never overly flashy.
Regular cheesecakes, on the other hand, love to steal the spotlight. Think towering layers, dripping sauces, and decadent toppings. Cheesecake Factory, anyone?
French Cheesecake vs. Regular Cheesecake: Which Is Healthier?
If you’re counting calories (or at least trying to), French cheesecake might be the better option. It uses less cream cheese and more protein-packed ingredients like fromage blanc or Greek yogurt. Plus, it’s typically lower in sugar and fat.
Regular cheesecake, while delicious, isn’t exactly health food. It’s rich, decadent, and calorie-dense—perfect for special occasions but maybe not a daily treat.
How to Choose Between French and Regular Cheesecake
- If you love light, tangy desserts, French cheesecake is your best bet. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or when you want something that feels less heavy.
- If you’re craving something rich and indulgent, go for regular cheesecake. It’s great for celebrations, holidays, or whenever you’re in the mood to treat yourself.
FAQs About French Cheesecake and Regular Cheesecake
1. Can I make French cheesecake with regular cream cheese?
Yes, but it won’t have the same light texture. Try substituting part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a closer match.
2. Is French cheesecake harder to make?
Not necessarily. The techniques are different, but once you get the hang of whipping egg whites or using a water bath, it’s pretty straightforward.
3. Which cheesecake is more popular in the U.S.?
Regular cheesecake, especially New York-style, is the go-to for most Americans. French cheesecake is less common but gaining popularity among foodies.
4. Can I make regular cheesecake without a crust?
Absolutely! Some recipes skip the crust altogether for a simpler, gluten-free option.
5. What’s the best topping for French cheesecake?
Fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, works beautifully. A drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar is also lovely.
Final Thoughts
When it comes down to it, French cheesecake and regular cheesecake are like cousins—similar in some ways but totally unique in others. French cheesecake is light, airy, and understated, while regular cheesecake is rich, creamy, and bold. Both are delicious, but the one you choose depends on your mood (and your taste buds).
So next time someone asks you about the difference, you’ll be ready to serve up the answer—along with a slice of your favorite cheesecake, of course!
Happy baking!