Cottage cheese cake

Quick Dessert: Cheesecake with Curd and Caramelized Fruits

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8

I propose a cheesecake recipe that combines the delicacy of curd with the sweetness of raisins and apricots. It is a simple dessert, perfect for any occasion, and the aroma of orange and essence of rum adds a touch of refinement. Whether you want to impress your guests or treat yourself to something sweet, this cake will surely win you over.

Ingredients:
- 500 g curd (fresh, well drained)
- 3 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 200 g flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- 100 ml milk
- 100 g raisins
- 100 g dried apricots
- Juice of one orange
- 1 teaspoon rum essence
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for decoration (optional)

Preparation:
1. Start by preparing the fruits. Place the raisins and dried apricots in a bowl and pour over them the freshly squeezed orange juice. Add the rum essence and let them soak for about 15-20 minutes. This step will not only soften the fruits but will infuse them with delicious flavors.

2. In another bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar until you obtain a fluffy, light-colored mixture. It is essential to be particularly careful at this stage, as the air incorporated into the eggs will help the cake have a light and fluffy texture.

3. Add the curd, mixing well to avoid lumps. You can use fine curd or mash it with a fork for a more uniform texture.

4. Gradually incorporate the flour mixed with baking powder and a pinch of salt, alternating with the milk. Mix gently to avoid losing the air in the mixture.

5. Add the hydrated fruits, drained of excess juice, and gently mix to distribute them evenly in the batter.

6. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking tray with butter and line it with flour or baking paper to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the tray and level the surface with a spatula.

7. Bake the cake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake it, as you want the cake to remain moist and fluffy.

8. Once the cake is ready, let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance.

Serving suggestions and variations:
This cheesecake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a chocolate sauce for a flavor contrast. You can also replace the apricots with other dried fruits, such as figs or cranberries, to experiment with different flavor combinations.

This cake is perfect for enjoying at a gathering with friends or as a dessert on a quiet evening at home. With a soft texture and rich flavor, it will surely become a favorite in your home!