If you’re following a carnivore diet and craving something sweet and indulgent, this creamy carnivore cheesecake recipe is about to become your new favorite dessert. Rich, velvety, and made with just a handful of animal-based ingredients, this carnivore diet cheesecake proves you don’t need sugar or plant-based fillers to enjoy a decadent treat.
Whether you opt for the baked version or the easy no bake carnivore cheesecake, you’ll have a satisfying dessert that aligns perfectly with your low-carb, high-fat lifestyle.
This copycat creamy carnivore cheesecake recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen, and it’s so simple that even beginners can master it!
What Does This Carnivore Cheesecake Taste Like?
This carnivore cheesecake is pure indulgence without the guilt. Imagine a luxuriously smooth, creamy texture that melts on your tongue with every bite.
The rich tang of cream cheese balances beautifully with the buttery heaviness of the base, creating a dessert that feels decadent yet surprisingly light. Unlike traditional cheesecakes loaded with sugar, this version lets the natural dairy flavors shine through-subtle, slightly savory, with just a hint of sweetness if you choose to add a zero-carb sweetener.
The no bake carnivore cheesecake version is mousse-like and airy, while the baked option offers a denser, more classic cheesecake experience with gently caramelized edges. Either way, it’s comfort food that satisfies your sweet tooth completely.
Ingredients for Carnivore Cheesecake
Main Ingredients:
- 2 packages (16 oz total) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- Vanilla extract (optional; use if you tolerate it)
- Salt (to taste)
- Stevia or another zero-carb sweetener (optional, to taste)
Kitchen Equipment and Tools:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric hand mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 8-inch round or square baking dish
- Oven or refrigerator
- Cooling rack
- Knife or cake slicer
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time (if baking): 20 minutes
- Cooling Time (baked): 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours minimum (overnight preferred)
- Total Time (baked): 2 hours 50 minutes
- Total Time (no-bake): 4 hours 10 minutes
- Serving Size: 8 people
How to Make Carnivore Cheesecake: Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to make your easy recipe for carnivore cheesecake? It’s super simple! Let’s walk through it together. This cheesecake is rich, creamy, and totally guilt-free.
Step 1: Prepare Your Cream Cheese Base
Start by ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature-this is crucial for a smooth, lump-free mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream. Using an electric hand mixer on medium speed, beat the ingredients together for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth and fluffy.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure everything is incorporated evenly. The eggs help the cheesecake set properly, while the heavy cream creates that signature rich, velvety texture.
Step 2: Add Butter and Optional Flavorings
Pour in the melted butter and continue mixing until fully combined. This adds an extra layer of richness and helps bind the ingredients together. If you’re using vanilla extract (only if it fits your carnivore protocol), add ½ teaspoon now. Add a pinch of salt to enhance all the flavors.
If you prefer a sweeter carnivore diet cheesecake, this is the time to incorporate your zero-carb sweetener-start with a small amount and taste as you go.
Step 3: Choose Your Method – Bake or No-Bake
For Baked Carnivore Cheesecake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 8-inch baking dish lightly with butter. Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with your spatula. Bake for 20 minutes-the edges should look lightly golden and set, while the center remains slightly jiggly (it will firm up as it cools).
Remove from the oven and let it cool on a cooling rack for 20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is best.
For No-Bake Carnivore Cheesecake: Line your 8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the mixture directly into the pan and smooth the top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, but overnight chilling produces the best texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The no-bake method creates a lighter, mousse-like consistency that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once fully chilled and set, run a knife around the edges of the pan and carefully remove your carnivore cheesecake. Slice into 8 generous portions using a sharp knife (wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices).
Serve as is for pure carnivore perfection, or top with a dollop of unsweetened whipped heavy cream. Each bite delivers pure, creamy satisfaction without any carbs!
Check another delicious recipe called Aunt Eileen’s Cookie Recipe
Customization and Pairing Ideas for Your Carnivore Cheesecake
One of the best things about this copycat creamy carnivore cheesecake recipe is its versatility within carnivore diet guidelines. Here are seven delicious ways to customize and serve your creation:
1. Cream Cheese Frosting Topping
Whip additional cream cheese with heavy cream and a touch of sweetener to create a luscious frosting layer on top. This adds extra richness and makes your cheesecake look bakery-worthy.
2. Bacon Crumble Garnish
For a savory-sweet twist, crisp up some bacon until it’s extra crunchy, crumble it finely, and sprinkle over individual slices. The salty, smoky flavor creates an unexpected but delightful contrast with the creamy cheesecake.
3. Butter-Whipped Topping
Beat cold butter with a pinch of salt until fluffy, then pipe or dollop onto each slice. This carnivore-friendly alternative to traditional whipped cream adds a rich, almost buttercream-like element.
4. Coffee Pairing
Serve your no bake carnivore cheesecake alongside a cup of bulletproof coffee (coffee blended with butter and MCT oil). The coffee’s boldness complements the cheesecake’s subtle sweetness perfectly, making it an ideal afternoon treat.
5. Egg Yolk Custard Layer
For an ultra-decadent version, create a simple custard using egg yolks, heavy cream, and butter. Pour this over your set cheesecake and chill for an additional hour to create a two-layer dessert masterpiece.
6. Individual Portion Cups
Instead of one large cheesecake, divide the mixture among 8 small ramekins or glass jars. This creates perfect portion control and makes serving at gatherings much easier. Plus, they look incredibly elegant!
7. Bone Broth Gelatin Base
For added gut health benefits, create a thin gelatin layer using unflavored beef gelatin and bone broth (cooled) at the bottom of your pan before adding the cheesecake mixture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Carnivore Cheesecake Every Time
Making the ultimate recipe for carnivore cheesecake is easy when you know these insider tricks:
1. Room Temperature is Key
Always let your cream cheese and eggs sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before mixing. Cold ingredients create lumps and air pockets that ruin the smooth texture. Room temperature ingredients blend seamlessly, creating that signature creamy consistency that makes this carnivore cheesecake so irresistible.
2. Don’t Overmix After Adding Eggs
Once you add the eggs to your cream cheese mixture, mix only until just combined. Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can cause cracks in baked cheesecakes or a grainy texture in no-bake versions. Use low speed and stop as soon as you no longer see streaks of egg.
3. The Jiggle Test for Baked Versions
When baking your carnivore diet cheesecake, look for a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pan. It should wobble like barely-set gelatin. The residual heat will continue cooking it as it cools, so removing it while slightly underdone prevents that dreaded dry, cracked top.
4. Water Bath Method for Extra Creaminess
For the most luxurious baked version, place your filled baking dish inside a larger roasting pan. Add hot water to the outer pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of your cheesecake pan. This water bath (bain-marie) ensures even, gentle heating and prevents cracking while keeping the texture incredibly moist.
5. Patience with Chilling Time
While it’s tempting to dig in early, proper chilling time is non-negotiable for the best no bake carnivore cheesecake. The minimum 4-hour chill allows the mixture to fully set and the flavors to develop. Overnight chilling produces an even better result-the texture becomes firmer and sliceable, and the taste mellows into something truly special.
6. Freezer-Friendly Hack
This copycat creamy carnivore cheesecake recipe freezes beautifully! Slice your finished cheesecake into individual portions, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw individual slices in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours whenever you need a quick carnivore-friendly dessert.
Storage and Reheating Guidance
Store your carnivore cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. There’s no need to reheat-this dessert is best enjoyed cold! For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge overnight.
Common Queries and FAQs
Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions that people often ask.
Q: Can I make this carnivore cheesecake completely sugar-free?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is naturally very low in lactose (milk sugar) and contains no added sugars. Simply omit any sweetener for a purely savory-tangy cheesecake, or use zero-carb sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol according to your taste preferences.
Q: Why is my no-bake carnivore cheesecake not setting properly?
A: The most common cause is insufficient chilling time. Make sure you refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is ideal. Also, ensure your cream cheese was at room temperature before mixing-cold cream cheese doesn’t incorporate properly and can affect the final texture.
Q: Can I use sour cream instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes! Sour cream is a great carnivore-friendly substitute that adds a pleasant tanginess. Use the same measurement (½ cup) and expect a slightly more tart flavor profile and thicker consistency.
Q: Is vanilla extract allowed on a strict carnivore diet?
A: This depends on how strict your carnivore approach is. Pure vanilla extract contains alcohol and trace plant compounds, so some carnivore dieters avoid it. Feel free to omit it entirely-the cheesecake is delicious without it-or use a few drops of vanilla-flavored stevia as an alternative.
Q: How do I prevent cracks in my baked carnivore cheesecake?
A: Cracks typically occur from overbaking or rapid temperature changes. Remove the cheesecake when the center still jiggles slightly, avoid opening the oven door during baking, and let it cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating. The water bath method mentioned in the tips section also helps prevent cracking.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
A: Definitely! This recipe scales up perfectly. For a double batch, use a 9×13-inch pan and increase the baking time to 25-30 minutes if baking, or simply use a larger dish if making the no-bake version. Chilling time remains the same.
Q: What’s the difference in texture between baked and no-bake versions?
A: The baked carnivore diet cheesecake has a denser, more traditional cheesecake texture with a slightly firmer structure and caramelized edges. The no bake carnivore cheesecake is lighter, airier, and more mousse-like-almost like a chilled cream cheese mousse. Both are delicious; it just depends on your preference!
Creamy Carnivore Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature-this is crucial for a smooth, lump-free mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream. Using an electric hand mixer on medium speed, beat the ingredients together for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth and fluffy.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure everything is incorporated evenly. The eggs help the cheesecake set properly, while the heavy cream creates that signature rich, velvety texture.
- Pour in the melted butter and continue mixing until fully combined. This adds an extra layer of richness and helps bind the ingredients together. If you’re using vanilla extract (only if it fits your carnivore protocol), add ½ teaspoon now. Add a pinch of salt to enhance all the flavors.
- If you prefer a sweeter carnivore diet cheesecake, this is the time to incorporate your zero-carb sweetener-start with a small amount and taste as you go.
- For Baked Carnivore Cheesecake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 8-inch baking dish lightly with butter. Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with your spatula. Bake for 20 minutes-the edges should look lightly golden and set, while the center remains slightly jiggly (it will firm up as it cools).
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a cooling rack for 20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is best.
- For No-Bake Carnivore Cheesecake: Line your 8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the mixture directly into the pan and smooth the top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, but overnight chilling produces the best texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The no-bake method creates a lighter, mousse-like consistency that’s perfect for hot summer days.
- Once fully chilled and set, run a knife around the edges of the pan and carefully remove your carnivore cheesecake. Slice into 8 generous portions using a sharp knife (wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices). Serve as is for pure carnivore perfection, or top with a dollop of unsweetened whipped heavy cream. Each bite delivers pure, creamy satisfaction without any carbs!
Video
Notes
This creamy carnivore cheesecake recipe proves that following a carnivore diet doesn’t mean sacrificing dessert. With its rich, satisfying flavor and incredibly simple preparation, this zero-carb treat will become your go-to when sweet cravings strike.
Whether you choose the classic baked method or the effortless no bake carnivore cheesecake approach, you’re just a few ingredients away from dessert perfection. Give this recipe for carnivore cheesecake a try today and discover how delicious clean eating can be!
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