If you’re looking for an indulgent dessert that brings elegance and a sophisticated twist to the table, this White Chocolate & Almond Amaretto Cheesecake is the answer. It’s the kind of rich, luxurious treat that turns any gathering into a celebration — and the flavor combination of creamy white chocolate, nutty almonds, and a whisper of amaretto liqueur is pure magic.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special dinner, or just because, this cheesecake strikes the perfect balance between decadent and refined. It’s surprisingly easy to make, yet it delivers that “wow” factor that every baker dreams of.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake
- Rich and creamy texture from the white chocolate and cream cheese base
- Nutty depth from finely chopped almonds in both the crust and filling
- Elegant almond flavor thanks to a splash of Amaretto liqueur
- Show-stopping appearance with a beautiful topping of almonds and optional white chocolate curls
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup finely chopped almonds
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Amaretto liqueur (or ½ teaspoon almond extract for alcohol-free version)
For the cheesecake filling:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup Amaretto liqueur (or 1 teaspoon almond extract for alcohol-free)
- 6 oz white chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
- ½ cup finely chopped almonds
For the sour cream topping (optional):
- 1 ½ cups sour cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish:
- Sliced almonds, toasted (optional)
- White chocolate curls or shavings (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Wrap the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with heavy-duty foil to prepare for a water bath.
2. Make the crust
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, chopped almonds, sugar, and melted butter. Stir in the Amaretto. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the cheesecake filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and mix until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, Amaretto, and melted white chocolate. Fold in the chopped almonds gently.
4. Bake the cheesecake
Pour the filling over the baked crust. Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the outer pan with about 1 inch of hot water (this water bath helps prevent cracks). Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly.
5. Add sour cream topping (optional)
Whisk together the sour cream, sugar, and vanilla. Carefully spread over the hot cheesecake after baking. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Cool and Chill
Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool in the pan for about an hour. Then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Garnish with toasted sliced almonds and white chocolate curls, if desired. Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts and serve!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for the smoothest batter.
- Avoid over-mixing, especially after adding the eggs — this helps prevent cracking.
- Don’t skip the water bath — it keeps the baking gentle and even.
- Refrigerate overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
- Use almond extract instead of Amaretto for an alcohol-free version with the same delicious flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered tightly. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Final Thoughts
This White Chocolate & Almond Amaretto Cheesecake isn’t just a dessert — it’s an experience. With its silky smooth filling, nutty base, and delicate flavor profile, it’s the kind of treat that earns compliments and recipe requests every time. Whether you’re celebrating something big or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to become a new favorite.