Name: Blue Cheese Cheesecake – Sweet, Savory, and Unexpected
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 8 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups crushed butter crackers or savory shortbread; 5 tbsp melted butter; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Honey, for drizzling; Toasted walnuts; Thinly sliced figs or poached pears; Fresh thyme leaves or flaky sea salt

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Introduction

This cheesecake isn’t shy. It’s bold, creamy, and just a little bit surprising. I never imagined blue cheese would work in a dessert, but one bite changed my mind completely. It’s that unexpected pairing of sweet and savory that makes your tastebuds pause, then come back for more. If you’re someone who leans toward sharp cheddar over milk chocolate, this recipe was made for you. It’s rich, memorable, and perfect for anyone who enjoys dessert that’s a little off the beaten path.

If bold, savory desserts aren’t your usual go-to, you might prefer something simpler—like our no-bake peanut butter cheesecake balls, sweet and comforting in all the right ways.

Key Ingredients for Blue Cheese Cheesecake

Blue cheese cheesecake ingredients — Simple pantry staples, but with a bold twist.

This unusual cheesecake leans on bold ingredients to deliver big flavor:

Cream cheese – Base of the cheesecake, smooth and neutral
Blue cheese – The star, bringing tang, sharpness, and depth
Sugar – Sweetens and balances the saltiness
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and give the cheesecake a firm, sliceable texture
Sour cream – Adds moisture and a slight tang
Vanilla extract – Rounds out the sharp notes with a touch of warmth
Butter & crackers – A salty-sweet crust that complements the filling

Each of these ingredients plays an essential role. The cream cheese offers the expected richness, while the blue cheese introduces a bold twist. The sugar doesn’t just add sweetness—it softens the assertive notes of the cheese, making the flavor more complex but still approachable. The sour cream and vanilla work in harmony to round things out, bringing balance and depth.

Easy Step-by-Step Blue Cheese Cheesecake Recipe

It follows the steps of a classic cheesecake, but the flavor takes an unexpected turn.

blue cheese cheesecake in springform pan — Smooth, creamy, and ready to bake—this step seals the flavor.

Crust Preparation

Crush butter crackers or savory shortbread and mix with melted butter. Firmly press the mixture into the pan and bake just long enough to hold its shape. The goal is a crust that’s crisp enough to hold up under the creamy filling but still tender enough to cut cleanly.

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Filling

Beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and blue cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then fold in sour cream and vanilla. Pour over crust. Be sure to mix just until combined to avoid too much air in the batter, which can lead to cracks.

Baking

Bake in a water bath at low heat until just set and slightly jiggly in the center. Cool slowly to avoid cracking. After baking, leave it in the warm oven with the door ajar to cool slowly, then refrigerate overnight to fully set.

Topping (Optional)

Top with a drizzle of honey, toasted walnuts, or thinly sliced figs to enhance the sweet-savory flavor balance. You can also add a pinch of flaky sea salt or a few fresh thyme leaves for extra depth and a more appetizer-style finish.

Blue cheese cheesecake slices with different toppings — Try honey, herbs, or balsamic for a totally new flavor experience.

Popular Variations to Try

Creative ways to customize your cheesecake:

Use gorgonzola or Roquefort for a different blue cheese profile
Make mini cheesecakes in muffin tins for appetizers
Add rosemary or thyme to the crust for herby aroma
Drizzle with balsamic reduction for an elegant finish
Serve with poached pears or roasted grapes for a seasonal twist
Use honey-roasted nuts on top for extra crunch and sweetness

Blue cheese cheesecake slice plated with honey and thyme — A slice of something unexpected—and delicious.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

Tips to master this bold dessert:

Use room temperature ingredients for the smoothest texture
Choose a mild blue cheese for a more approachable flavor
Don’t overbake—it should still jiggle in the center
Let it chill fully before slicing for clean, neat pieces
Use a water bath to prevent cracks and ensure gentle cooking
For best results, let the cheesecake rest overnight before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

What does blue cheese cheesecake taste like?

Expect a creamy, full-bodied bite with a balance of sweetness and that signature salty blue cheese edge. It’s not overpowering but definitely unique.

Can I use gorgonzola instead of blue cheese?

Yes! Gorgonzola is often milder and creamier, making it a great option for first-timers.

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Is this more of a dessert or an appetizer?

It works beautifully as either—serve smaller portions with crackers for a savory starter or top with honey for dessert.

How long does blue cheese cheesecake last?

Stored tightly covered in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to 4 days.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, this cheesecake tastes even better the next day. Prepare it up to 48 hours in advance and store it chilled.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs, nuts, or fruit depending on whether you’re leaning sweet or savory.

Conclusion

Blue cheese cheesecake isn’t for everyone—but for those who crave bold, interesting flavors, it’s a true gem. It’s the kind of dish that sparks conversation, turns heads, and lingers in memory. Whether you serve it as a surprise dessert or an elevated appetizer, one thing’s certain: you won’t forget it anytime soon. With its rich texture and complex flavor, it brings something fresh to the table and offers a new way to experience both cheesecake and blue cheese. Give it a try—you might just fall in love with this bold, creamy twist on tradition.

Blue Cheese Cheesecake – Sweet, Savory, and Unexpected

Author: Chef Paul
Total Time: 8 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Blue Cheese Cheesecake is a bold, creamy dessert that blends the tangy sharpness of blue cheese with the smooth sweetness of traditional cheesecake. Ideal for adventurous palates, it strikes a delicious balance between savory and sweet, making it perfect as either an unconventional dessert or an upscale appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 1/2 cups crushed butter crackers or savory shortbread
5 tbsp melted butter