To Chill Or Not To Chill: The Great Cheesecake Conundrum

Removing a cheesecake from a springform pan can be a messy and challenging task. It is important to ensure that the cheesecake is chilled and firm before attempting to remove it from the pan. This can be achieved by refrigerating it overnight or for at least 12 hours. One can also use a knife to loosen the sides of the cheesecake and heat the bottom of the pan slightly to make the removal process smoother. Additionally, lining the pan with parchment paper before baking can make it easier to remove the cheesecake in one piece.

Chilling the cheesecake

Cooling the Cheesecake

Once your cheesecake is baked, it needs to cool down. Leaving the cheesecake in a slightly open oven for a few hours is a good way to let it cool gradually. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracking and other issues. After it has cooled to room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminium foil and place it in the fridge.

Chilling Overnight

It is best to chill your cheesecake overnight or for at least 12 hours. This extended period in the fridge will ensure the cheesecake is firm and set, making it less likely to break when you try to remove it from the pan. A chilled cheesecake will also remain upright when you lift away the sides of the springform pan, whereas a warm or room-temperature cheesecake may slump to one side.

• Chilling and the Crust
• Removing from the Fridge

When you take your cheesecake out of the fridge, it is now time to remove it from the pan. If you lined your pan with parchment paper before baking, this process will be easier. You can simply lift the cheesecake out of the pan, peel back the parchment paper, and place your cheesecake on a serving platter.

If you did not use parchment paper, you will need to use a knife to loosen the sides of the cheesecake from the pan. Dip a sharp knife or butter knife in hot water and gently slide it around the inside edge of the pan. Re-dip the knife in hot water as needed to prevent it from drying out and dragging against the cheesecake.

After loosening the sides, you can unlatch the pan and lift away the sides. Now, you can slide the cheesecake onto a platter or use spatulas to lift it—a tricky process that may require an extra pair of hands!

Lining the pan with parchment paper

Lining a springform pan with parchment paper is a great way to make removing your cheesecake easier. It is also known as baking paper or greaseproof paper. It has a non-stick coating, such as silicone or quilon, that allows you to remove your cheesecake with ease.

To line your springform pan with parchment paper, first unlock the pan and separate the base from the sides. Take your springform base and turn it upside down on the parchment paper. Cut the paper about one inch bigger than your base. You can also cut a circular piece slightly smaller in circumference than the base and stick it over without separating the springform ring from the base. Flip and reassemble the springform pan, securing it with the clasp.

You can also cut a strip of parchment paper to line the sides of the pan. First, grease the sides of the pan and then stick the paper along the inside. This will prevent your cheesecake from sticking to the sides.

Once you have baked your cheesecake, you can simply slide it off the base of the pan using the parchment paper.

Removing the sides of the pan

Firstly, it is important to ensure that your cheesecake is properly chilled before attempting to remove it from the pan. It is recommended to chill the cake overnight or for at least 12 hours. This will allow the cheesecake to firm up, making it less prone to cracking or breaking during the removal process.

Once your cheesecake is sufficiently chilled, you can begin the process of removing the sides. Start by gently lifting the sides of the pan away from the cake. If your cheesecake has been properly chilled, it should remain upright and will not slump to one side.

After removing the sides, you may notice some small cracks or imperfections on the surface of the cheesecake. To smooth out these imperfections, run a knife under hot water and gently glide it over the rough areas. This will help create a smooth and even surface.

If you have not already done so, it is a good idea to line the bottom of your pan with parchment paper. This will make the removal process much easier. Gently slide the parchment paper between the crust and the bottom of the pan. By doing this, you can simply lift the cheesecake off the base, parchment paper and all, and then gently slide the paper out from under the cake.

If you did not use parchment paper, you can use a spatula or a large knife to loosen the cake from the base. Gently slide the spatula or knife between the crust and the bottom of the pan, being careful not to damage the cake.

With the sides of the pan removed and the cheesecake loosened from the base, you are now ready to lift the cheesecake off the base. You can use the spatula or knife to gently encourage the cake to move off the base. Alternatively, you can use three large spatulas and enlist the help of a friend. Carefully slide the spatulas between the crust and the base, making sure to cover as much area as possible. Then, gently lift the cheesecake and transfer it to a waiting platter.

Remember to work slowly and carefully throughout the entire process to avoid damaging your cheesecake.

Using a knife to loosen the cake

Firstly, it is important to allow your cheesecake to cool completely before attempting to remove it from the pan. This helps the cheesecake set properly and prevents it from sticking to the pan. Gradual cooling is essential, so place the cheesecake on a wire rack for about an hour, and then let it cool completely at room temperature.

Once your cheesecake is cooled, it's time to loosen the edges with a knife. Take a thin, offset spatula or a butter knife, and gently run it along the sides of the pan, separating the cheesecake from the edges. Be cautious not to push the knife too far into the cheesecake to avoid damaging its structure. Continue running the knife around the cheesecake, ensuring that it is evenly loosened.

If your cheesecake has been baked with a crust, it is best to use a butter knife, as this will help to keep the sides of the cake smooth. Also, make sure to wet the knife with hot water before running it along the edges. This will help to loosen the cake effectively while keeping the sides smooth. Remember to re-wet the knife every few inches to prevent it from drying and dragging against the cheesecake. Do not use cold water, as it is not as effective and may increase the chances of the cake cracking or breaking.

After loosening the edges with the knife, it is now time to remove the springform ring. Gently release the latch or clasp on the side of the pan and carefully lift away the outer ring, leaving the cheesecake on the base. If the cheesecake is stuck to the sides or bottom of the pan, use the knife to gently release it.

With the springform ring removed, you can now transfer the cheesecake to a serving platter or cake stand. Slide a large, flat spatula or a cake lifter underneath the cheesecake to support it during the transfer. Then, carefully lift the cheesecake from the base and place it on the desired serving plate. Finally, remove the parchment paper from the bottom of the cheesecake by gently sliding it out.

Your cheesecake is now ready to be served and enjoyed! Remember to use a clean, sharp knife to slice the cheesecake neatly and precisely.

Using spatulas to lift the cake

Using spatulas to lift a cheesecake from a springform pan requires some preparation and an extra pair of hands.

First, it is important to chill the cheesecake overnight so that it is firm and less likely to break apart. Then, gather three large, flat, thin spatulas and a friend. The extra pair of hands is important because the cake might break if you try to support it with just two spatulas.

Next, carefully slide the spatulas between the crust and the springform pan bottom. Keep sliding as far as you can, and try to cover as much area under the cake as possible. Space the spatulas evenly around the cake so no one spot is unsupported.

Finally, lift the cake onto a platter. Hold two of the spatulas and have your friend grab the third. Count to three and gently lift the cake onto a platter. Make sure you lift at the exact same moment, using the same speed, or else the cake will break. Once the cake is on the platter, gently slide the spatulas out from under the cake.

Frequently asked questions