Tim tam cheesecake with nutella

Decadent Gluten-Free Tim Tam Cheesecake with Nutella

If you’re a fan of indulgent desserts, few things come close to the magic of a Tim Tam cheesecake. Add a swirl of Nutella, and you’ve got a treat that’s chocolatey, creamy, and irresistible—all gluten-free. Perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cheesecake combines the rich flavor of Tim Tam cookies, the silky texture of cream cheese, and the nutty chocolate goodness of Nutella into one show-stopping dessert.

The best part? Even those avoiding gluten can enjoy this dessert without compromising on flavor or texture. With a crunchy base, creamy filling, and a Nutella topping, this cheesecake is as delicious as it is beautiful.

Yield: 8–10 slices
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Chill Time: 4–12 hours
Total Time: 5–12 hours

Ingredients

Gluten-Free Tim Tam Base

200 g gluten-free Tim Tam biscuits (about 1 ½ cups crushed)
80 g unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

500 g cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
200 ml thickened cream (or heavy cream)
2 large eggs

Nutella Topping

½ cup Nutella (or more to taste)
2 tablespoons warm cream or milk (optional, for drizzling)

Optional Decoration

Crushed Tim Tams
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder

Equipment Needed

20 cm (8-inch) springform pan
Mixing bowls and spatula
Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
Saucepan (for Nutella drizzle, optional)
Food processor or rolling pin for crushing biscuits

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
Crush the gluten-free Tim Tams into fine crumbs using a food processor, or place them in a zip-lock bag and crush with a rolling pin.
Combine the crushed biscuits with melted butter in a mixing bowl until the mixture holds together when pressed.
Press the mixture evenly into the base of a greased springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or a glass to compact it firmly.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to cool while preparing the filling. This step ensures a crisp, buttery crust that won’t become soggy under the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
Add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully combined before adding the next.
Fold in the thickened cream until smooth and creamy. The batter should be luscious, slightly thick but pourable.

Tip: For extra silky texture, don’t overmix once the eggs are added—overbeating can incorporate too much air and cause cracks in the cheesecake.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled Tim Tam base and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles when tapped.
Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly ajar, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracks on the surface.
Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to fully set.

Step 4: Add Nutella Topping

Warm the Nutella slightly in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a small saucepan over low heat, just enough to make it pourable.
For a drizzle effect, mix Nutella with 2 tablespoons of warm cream or milk.
Pour or drizzle Nutella over the chilled cheesecake, swirling gently with a knife or spatula to create a marbled effect.
Decorate with crushed Tim Tams, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder if desired.

Step 5: Serving

Slice the cheesecake with a hot, clean knife for smooth edges.
Serve chilled with extra Nutella or whipped cream on the side if desired.
This dessert pairs perfectly with coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of cold milk.

Tip: For clean slices, wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts. This keeps the layers neat and prevents smudging.

Step 6: Storage

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, individual slices can be frozen for 1–2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Gluten-Free Cheesecake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter and no lumps.
Crust Matters: Don’t skip baking the base—it locks in flavor and keeps it crisp.
Avoid Overbaking: The center should jiggle slightly; it will firm up as it chills.
Swirl Nutella Carefully: Use a knife or skewer to swirl gently, creating a marble effect without mixing it completely.
Quality Ingredients: Use real Nutella and fresh cream cheese—these flavors really shine in a simple dessert like this.

Why This Cheesecake Works

Gluten-Free Friendly: By using gluten-free Tim Tams, this dessert is safe for anyone avoiding gluten without compromising flavor.
Perfect Texture: The buttery crisp base contrasts beautifully with the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth filling.
Chocolate Heaven: Nutella adds a rich, nutty chocolate swirl that elevates this cheesecake from simple to decadent.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for parties or celebrations, it can be made a day in advance.

With its indulgent layers and elegant presentation, this Gluten-Free Tim Tam Cheesecake with Nutella is a dessert that impresses at any gathering. Creamy, chocolatey, and absolutely irresistible, it’s a treat worth every bite. Whether you’re a chocoholic, a cheesecake lover, or simply want a show-stopping dessert for a special occasion, this recipe delivers every time.