Trader Joe’s New York Deli Style Cheesecake review

If you’ve ever stood in front of the freezer section at Trader Joe’s trying to figure out which dessert to grab “just in case,” let me make it easy for you: get the New York Deli Style Cheesecake. It’s nothing fancy or over-the-top, and that’s exactly why I love it. This cheesecake is simple, classic, and always there when you need a creamy, satisfying bite.

I first picked it up on a whim while stocking up on frozen snacks for the kids, and now it’s a regular in our freezer. It’s the kind of dessert that works for any occasion—family dinners, coffee with a friend, or when you're up late binge-watching a show and want something sweet (but not too sweet).

Taste and texture

The texture is wonderfully smooth and dense—just like a good cheesecake should be. It has that signature New York-style richness with a creamy mouthfeel and a slight tang from the cream cheese. It's not overly sweet, which I appreciate. The graham cracker crust is just right too—crumbly but not dry, and it holds together well when you slice into it.

One thing I really love? You can thaw a slice and serve it just as is, or dress it up if you're feeling extra. I usually serve mine with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a handful of fresh berries. The cheesecake isn’t too rich, so adding toppings doesn’t make it overwhelming—it actually makes it feel more like a fancy treat without any extra effort.

How to serve it

Trader Joe’s recommends thawing it in the refrigerator for 3–4 hours or at room temperature for about an hour. I usually pop it in the fridge after lunch if I know I’ll want it after dinner. It’s fully baked but not pre-sliced.

cheesecake on the table covered in plastic

Sometimes I drizzle a little berry compote on top, and if I have guests, I’ll sprinkle crushed graham crackers or even chocolate shavings. But truthfully, it doesn’t need much. My favorite way to serve it with fresh berries and whipped cream is great too!

How it compares to other store-bought cheesecakes

Trader Joe’s New York Deli Style Cheesecake really stands out among grocery store frozen desserts. Compared to other store-bought options, it feels less artificial—there’s no strange aftertaste, and the texture is rich and velvety rather than gummy or overly fluffy. Some cheesecakes from big brands taste overly processed or cloyingly sweet, but this one is more balanced and feels closer to something homemade.

If you’ve tried frozen cheesecakes from places like Costco or the grocery bakery aisle, you might find this one a little smaller in size but better in flavor and more consistent in texture. It’s definitely a good “everyday cheesecake” to keep on hand when you want a quick dessert without fuss.

front view of a slice of cheesecake on the paper plate

Final thoughts

If you’re expecting a fancy, bakery-style cheesecake with layers and toppings, this isn’t that. But if you want a dependable, no-fuss dessert that tastes great straight from your freezer, the New York Deli Style Cheesecake is a win. It’s great for entertaining, but I also just like having a slice with coffee on a slow weekend afternoon.

My only regret? Not grabbing two. Because once my kids discovered how good it was, it disappeared fast.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars. Delicious, simple, and a total freezer staple in our house.