The Cheesecake Factory is the first place that often comes to mind when you’re looking for a decadent treat. It isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a dining experience. Obviously, the Cheesecake Factory’s most famous item is its namesake dessert: the cheesecake.
With so many varieties that cater to different tastes, it’s easy to see why the cheesecakes on CF’s menu are uber popular. But, what if you fall into that small category of people that…doesn’t like cheesecake?
Fear not, the Cheesecake Factory still has options available for you! From the plain and simple, to the special occasion fare, the Cheesecake Factory dessert menu is full of hidden gems. Some of these options are so good that even cheesecake lovers might want a little taste.
1. Linda’s Fudge Cake
The Cheesecake Factory menu advertises this dessert as a cake made with “layers of rich chocolate cake and fudge frosting.” At first read, this sounds like any other cake, but don’t let the simple description fool you.
This cake has all the components of a five-star dessert. From the crunch of the chocolate chip coating, to the insane layers in each slice (there’s at least 8 in this pic alone), to the whipped cream on the side to cut through all that richness, this cake looks next level. I don’t know who Linda is, but I feel like I should write her a thank you note.
2. Strawberry Shortcake
Did you ever meet a biscuit you didn’t like? If the Cheesecake Factory’s dinner rolls are already legendary, just think of how well they could bake a flaky, buttery biscuit. Plus, the strawberry shortcake would be so much less dense than any of the cheesecakes on rotation, so you’d be having a “lighter” dessert.
Of course, “lighter” is a relative term (it’s the Cheesecake Factory, come on), but there’s strawberries on it. So it’s practically a health food.
3. Bowl of Strawberries
Okay, so if you’re looking for something that’s actually on the lighter side, this pick might be for you. I didn’t even know that the Cheesecake Factory offered fruit on their dessert menu, but hey, I’d be down.
Sometimes, some natural sweetness is all you really need (although, the whipped cream probably helps). If you’re not in the mood for something rich and chocolatey, this could be for you. Sometimes the unexpected choice is the right one.
4. Black-Out Cake
Okay, so now that we’ve gotten that fruit nonsense out of the way, please turn your attention to the Black-Out Cake. It’s basically Linda’s Fudge Cake with some almonds thrown in for good measure.
If you love a nutty crunch, this Black-Out Cake is the one for you. Chocolate and nuts are a match made in heaven, so why not enjoy them both at the same time? Just take it slow, or you might experience some of the food coma that the cake’s name would suggest.
5. Milkshakes
Milkshakes and frappes are always a popular treat come summertime, so it’s no surprise that the Cheesecake Factory has some on its menu. If you’re into the simple flavors, there’s chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. But, if you like to live on the edge, they also have an Oreo variety.
Plus, if you’re over 21, you can def sneak a little booze into your ice cream treat. Who needs chewing anyway, am I right?
6. Hot Fudge Sundae
Find one fault with this picture, I dare you. The hot fudge sundae is pretty much the quintessential dessert, so of course the Cheesecake Factory had to have its own version. Is there any better way to finish off a meal than a big scoop of ice cream absolutely drowning in gooey hot fudge?
Let me answer that for you—no. No there is not. If you’re a true fan of the classics, consider ordering this baby the next time you hit up CF.
7. Carrot Cake
TBH, carrot cake is my favorite kind of cake, so I’m not even mad at this one. Say what you will about carrot cake being a fall flavor due to all of the spices, but I think you can enjoy this dessert from the Cheesecake Factory year round.
I mean, look at how moist the cake looks and all the crunchy nuts coating the outside. How can you not want a bite? And the cake is held together with cream cheese icing, so it’s not like you’re missing the cheesecake that much.
8. Lemoncello Cream Torte
But, if you’re a stickler for summer flavors, maybe the Lemoncello Cream Torte is more your speed. This dessert may just seem like a plain vanilla cake, but between the layers, there’s some delicious lemon mascarpone cream waiting for its moment to shine.
Plus the dessert is topped with streusel and whipped cream, and I think we can all agree that streusel should be on everything. Eating this might not be as easy as taking a shot of limoncello, but the Cheesecake Factory knows that this dessert is just as satisfying.
9. Warm Apple Crisp
There are two types of people in the world: those who love the smell of freshly baked apples and cinnamon, and liars. If you’re looking for a warm and cozy dessert next time you hit up the Cheesecake Factory, look no further.
This treat is topped with CF’s signature “nutty topping,” ice cream, and whipped cream. And that caramel swirl? Latte artists wish that they could make designs that look half as delicious.
The Cheesecake Factory’s dessert menu outside of their signature cheesecakes might seem pretty small and insignificant, but don’t let its lack of press fool you.
If you look hard enough, you might just find your new favorite. Besides, if you really can’t be without it, you can always take a slice of cheesecake to go after you foot the bill.