Homemade Costco Soft Cheesecake Recipe

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There’s something irresistible about the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of Costco Soft Cheesecake. I’ve always marveled at how Costco manages to achieve that perfect balance of richness and fluffiness. And let’s not even get started on the buttery graham cracker crust—it’s a dream come true!

How to make Costco Soft Cheesecake

Costco Soft Cheesecake is a specific cheesecake product now being sold in Costco stores that’s quite different from the classic dense American-style cheesecake you might picture.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (around 14 whole crackers, finely crushed)
• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, to enhance flavor)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 (8-ounce) blocks of cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream (for added creaminess, like Costco’s style)
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional, brightens the flavor)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (helps maintain structure while staying soft)

For Topping (Optional):

• Whipped cream
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Fruit preserves or caramel drizzle

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper (this ensures easy release).
2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt (if using). Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to compact it tightly.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the cream cheese and sugar together in a large mixing bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer (fitted with a paddle attachment). Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using). Mix until fully incorporated.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Be careful not to overmix—overmixing can lead to cracking during baking.
4. Finally, sift in the flour and gently fold it into the batter until smooth. This helps achieve the characteristic softness of the Costco cheesecake.

3. Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake batter onto the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth out the top using a spatula.
2. To prevent cracking, place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan (this is called a water bath and ensures even baking and moisture).
3. Carefully transfer the pans to the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when gently shaken.

4. Cool and Chill

1. Once baked, turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour. This prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracking.
2. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature on a rack. Once fully cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but preferably overnight. The chilling time enhances the flavor and allows the texture to set properly.
3. Before serving, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Top with whipped cream, fresh berries, or your favorite cheesecake toppings for the finishing touch! A dollop of fresh, sweetened whipped cream will bring it even closer to the Costco experience.

Tips for the Perfect Costco Cheesecake

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients (cream cheese, eggs, sour cream) are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which can make your cheesecake rise unevenly or crack. Mix gently and at low speed after adding the eggs.
• Use a Water Bath: A water bath helps regulate the baking temperature and keeps the cheesecake moist, mimicking that rich, creamy texture.
• Cool Gradually: Avoid drastic temperature changes to prevent cracks—the key is to let the cheesecake cool slowly in a turned-off oven.
• Plan Ahead: Cheesecake tastes best after a long chilling period. Don’t skip the overnight refrigeration for the softest, most flavorful result.
• Springform Pan Tip: Wrap the outside of your springform pan in aluminum foil if you’re using a water bath to prevent leaks.

What to serve with

Costco soft cheesecake is a decadent dessert with its creamy texture, buttery graham cracker crust, and indulgent flavor. While it’s delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary toppings and sides can elevate the experience to a whole new level.

1. Fresh Fruit Toppings

Fresh fruit is one of the most classic and universally loved pairings for Costco Soft Cheesecake. It adds a vibrant burst of flavor and balances the rich, creamy texture of the cheesecake.

• Mixed Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries creates a visually stunning and tangy-sweet topping.
• Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberry slices sprinkled with a touch of sugar (to bring out the juices) make a simple, flavorful addition.
• Citrus Fruits: Thinly sliced oranges, lemons, or blood oranges can offer a bright and zesty zing.
• Kiwi or Mango: For a tropical twist, either adds sweetness and freshness.

2. Fruit Compotes or Sauces

If fresh fruit isn’t available or you’re looking for something richer, fruit compotes or sauces are a fantastic option. These are easy to make and bring a burst of flavor. Warm or chilled, they’re totally irresistible with Costco Soft Cheesecake.

• Mixed Berry Compote: Made by simmering berries with sugar and a splash of lemon juice for a slightly chunky sauce.
• Cherry Topping: A sweet and tangy cherry compote is a classic pairing with cheesecake (think Black Forest vibes!).
• Caramelized Apples or Pears: Softened slices of apples or pears turned in butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon create a warm, cozy topping.
• Peach Sauce: Sweetened peaches simmered until syrupy add a summery, delicate flavor.

Ingredients Substitutes

Recreating a Costco soft cheesecake at home should be a fun and flexible process.

1. Cream Cheese Substitutes

The key ingredient in Costco Soft Cheesecake is cream cheese. However, if you’re looking for a substitute, here are some great options:

Dairy-Based Alternatives:

• Neufchâtel Cheese: Often sold alongside cream cheese, Neufchâtel has less fat and a slightly tangier flavor, but it works very similarly in cheesecake recipes.
• Mascarpone Cheese: For an extra luxurious, creamy cheesecake, mascarpone can be used completely or as a half-and-half blend with cream cheese. It has a mild, buttery flavor but is richer in fat, so the result may be even denser.
• Ricotta Cheese: Blending ricotta until smooth can create a cream cheese-like texture. However, note that it lends a slightly grainier texture and is less tangy. Pair it with Greek yogurt or a dash of lemon juice for balance.
• Cottage Cheese (Blended): Low-fat or regular cottage cheese blended into a smooth consistency works as a backup option, though it’s slightly lighter and less creamy.

Dairy-Free/Vegan Options:

• Vegan Cream Cheese: Brands like Kite Hill, Tofutti, or Violife offer dairy-free cream cheese alternatives that work well in cheesecake recipes.
• Blended Silken Tofu: Silken tofu provides a similar creamy consistency, making it a perfect plant-based substitute. Combine it with a little lemon juice and coconut cream for a better flavor.
• Cashew Cream: Soaked and blended cashews (with vanilla and lemon juice) create a creamy mixture that mimics the texture of cream cheese in vegan cheesecakes.

2. Sour Cream Substitutes

Sour cream adds tanginess and helps create the Costco Soft Cheesecake’s signature creamy texture. Consider these swaps if you can’t find sour cream:

Dairy Options:

• Greek Yogurt: Use full-fat, unflavored Greek yogurt as a 1:1 replacement. It has a slightly tangy flavor and is lighter than sour cream.
• Crème Fraîche: This French cultured cream offers a similar flavor profile to sour cream but is slightly less tangy. The ultra-creamy consistency is a great substitute.
• Buttermilk (Thicker): While thinner than sour cream, buttermilk adds a tangy taste. To thicken it, mix it with a small amount of softened cream cheese or Greek yogurt.

Dairy-Free/Vegan Options:

• Coconut Cream: The thick portion of canned coconut milk makes a good dairy-free option. Add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy kick.
• Vegan Yogurt: Unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (like almond or cashew-based) can replace sour cream easily.

3. Egg Substitutes

The eggs in Costco Soft Cheesecake act as a binding agent, giving it structure while maintaining creaminess. If you’re looking for an eggless version, try these alternatives:

Vegan/Egg-Free Options:

• Flaxseed or Chia Seed “Egg”: Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water to replace 1 egg. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency.
• Silken Tofu: Use 1/4 cup of blended silken tofu to replace 1 egg. It provides great structure and moisture to the cheesecake while remaining neutral in flavor.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: Substitute 1/4 cup of applesauce per egg for a slightly denser and sweeter cheesecake.
• Store-Bought Egg Substitutes: Products like Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer or Ener-G Egg Replacer are excellent choices for binding in egg-free cheesecake recipes.

4. Sugar Substitutes

Granulated sugar is used to sweeten the cheesecake evenly. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar or you don’t have it, here are some substitutions:

Low-Calorie Options:

• Stevia: A zero-calorie natural sweetener that can be used in place of sugar. Check the packaging for the right conversion ratio, as stevia is much sweeter than sugar.
• Monk Fruit Sweetener: Another natural, calorie-free sweetener with no aftertaste. Use it as a 1:1 substitute for sugar.

Natural Sweeteners:

• Honey: Use about 3/4 the amount of honey as the recipe calls for sugar, as honey is sweeter. Keep in mind it adds a floral undertone.
• Maple Syrup: A great substitute with a unique flavor. Use about 2/3 the amount of sugar required.
• Coconut Sugar: Use this unrefined sugar as a 1:1 swap. It will darken the color of your cheesecake slightly and add caramel notes.

5. Graham Cracker Crust Alternatives

If you’re out of graham crackers or looking for a fun twist, there are plenty of crust options:

Cookie Substitutes:

• Digestive Biscuits: These are very similar to graham crackers and work perfectly as a crust.
• Oreo Cookies: Crush Oreos (with or without the filling) to make a rich chocolate crust.
• Gingersnaps: A spicy and aromatic alternative, perfect for fall or holiday-inspired cheesecakes.
• Biscoff Cookies: These caramelized cookies create a buttery, sweet crust with a unique flavor.

Gluten-Free and Other Options:

• Gluten-Free Crackers: Brands like Schär offer excellent gluten-free crackers that can mimic the graham cracker texture.
• Crushed Nuts: Almonds, pecans, or walnuts (ground finely) mixed with butter and sugar create a nutty, gluten-free crust.
• Oats: Blend rolled oats with a little butter and sugar for a rustic, gluten-free base.

6. Flour Substitutes

Flour is sometimes added to stabilize the cheesecake filling or prevent cracking. Here are some substitutes:

• Cornstarch or Arrowroot Powder: Replace flour with an equal amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder for a gluten-free, smooth texture.
• Almond Flour: A good 1:1 gluten-free option that adds subtle nutty notes.
• Coconut Flour: Use sparingly, as coconut flour is very absorbent. You’ll need roughly 1/4 the amount of regular flour.

7. Vanilla Extract Substitutes

Vanilla extract adds warmth and flavor to cheesecake. If you’re out, try these instead:

• Vanilla Bean Paste: Use an equal amount for a bolder vanilla flavor.
• Almond Extract: A stronger flavoring, so use about 1/4 of the amount called for.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a mild, earthy sweetness as a vanilla replacement.

8. Butter Substitutes

Butter is primarily used in the crust to bind the crumbs together. Here are alternatives:

• Coconut Oil: A 1:1 substitute for butter, coconut oil solidifies when chilled, making it ideal for cheesecake crust.
• Vegan Butter: Plant-based butter alternatives like Earth Balance work perfectly in the same ratio.
• Margarine: A simple alternative if you don’t have unsalted butter on hand.

Final Thoughts

Recreating Costco soft cheesecake at home is not only satisfying but also gives you the flexibility to adjust flavors and toppings to suit your taste.

More Costco Recipes:

• Copycat Costco Cookie Dough Cake Recipe
• Homemade Costco Cookie Bar Cake Recipe