This no-bake savory cheesecake is built on a crisp herb cracker crust, layered with a whipped herbed cream cheese filling, and topped with juicy heirloom cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. A stunning, garden-fresh appetizer or brunch centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Heirloom Tomato Savory Cheesecake is an elegant and unexpected take on a classic dessert, reimagined as a refined appetizer. Its herb-infused crust, creamy and tangy cheese layer, and bright, juicy tomatoes make for a delightful balance of textures and flavors. This recipe is ideal for garden parties, holiday brunches, or any event where you want to impress with a sophisticated, vegetarian-friendly dish that requires no baking.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

herbed crackers or whole grain crackers, crushed
unsalted butter, melted
grated Parmesan cheese

For the Cheesecake Layer:

cream cheese, softened
sour cream
lemon juice
garlic powder
onion powder
chopped chives
chopped fresh basil
salt and black pepper

For the Topping:

mixed heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved
fresh basil leaves
freshly ground black pepper

directions

Prepare the crust:

In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed crackers, melted butter, and grated Parmesan.
Press the mixture firmly into the base of a springform pan or tart pan, forming an even layer.
Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to set.

Make the filling:

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free.
Add sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, chopped chives, and basil.
Season with salt and pepper, then beat the mixture until light, fluffy, and well combined.
Spread the herbed cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.

Assemble and serve:

Once the cheesecake is set, arrange the halved heirloom cherry tomatoes over the surface.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a crack of freshly ground black pepper.
Slice and serve chilled as a savory appetizer.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Total time: About 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

Goat Cheese Blend: Substitute half of the cream cheese with soft goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
Pesto Swirl: Add a swirl of basil pesto into the cheesecake filling for extra herbal depth.
Roasted Tomato Topping: Use slow-roasted cherry tomatoes instead of fresh for a sweeter, more concentrated flavor.
Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual portions using muffin tins for easy serving.
Nut Crust: Replace crackers with crushed walnuts or almonds for a nutty, gluten-free base.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This dish is meant to be served chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Allow leftovers to come to room temperature slightly before serving for best flavor.
Freezing: Freezing is not advised, as the texture of the cream cheese may change when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake a day in advance?

Yes, in fact, chilling it overnight enhances the flavors and ensures it sets perfectly.

Can I use regular crackers if I don’t have herbed ones?

Yes, you can use plain crackers and add dried herbs like thyme or oregano for flavor.

Is this cheesecake gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free crackers for the crust.

What other herbs can I use in the filling?

Try dill, parsley, or tarragon for different herbal notes.

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, grape tomatoes or thinly sliced regular tomatoes also work well, though the presentation may differ.

Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

A springform pan is ideal for easy release, but a tart pan with a removable base also works.

Can I serve this warm?

This cheesecake is intended to be served chilled; warming it may compromise the texture.

How do I prevent the tomatoes from making the top soggy?

Add tomatoes just before serving and pat them dry with a paper towel if they are especially juicy.

What can I serve this with?

Pair it with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple green salad.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, though the texture may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Conclusion

Heirloom Tomato Savory Cheesecake is a showstopping dish that blends the indulgence of creamy cheese with the freshness of garden vegetables and herbs. It’s an inventive and sophisticated choice for brunches, celebrations, or as an elegant appetizer. With no baking required and endless customization options, this savory cheesecake is sure to become a seasonal favorite.