Amaretto Cheesecake

Amaretto and Mint Cheesecake - an aromatic delicacy

I present to you a splendid cheesecake recipe, an irresistible combination of textures and flavors that will transform any occasion into a special moment. This cheesecake with Amaretto, fresh mint, and a crunchy ladyfinger base is truly delicious and perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Whether it's an anniversary, a family gathering, or simply a weekend evening, this dessert will surely become your favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 6 hours (during which the cheesecake cools)
Servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

*For the base:*
- 200 g ladyfingers
- 75 g melted butter
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons Amaretto

*For the cream cheese:*
- 1 kg creamy cottage cheese (we recommend Pilos from Lidl for a fine texture)
- 3 eggs
- 5 tablespoons sour cream
- 250 g powdered sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla (or one fresh vanilla pod)
- 3 tablespoons Amaretto

*For the whipped cream:*
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons Amaretto

*For decoration:*
- Fresh mint leaves
- A few squares of chocolate (one row)
- Chocolate shavings for decoration

*Necessary utensils:*
- 27 cm removable-bottom cake pan
- Blender or food processor
- Mixer

Step by step:

1. Preparing the base:
Start by turning the ladyfingers into powder using a blender or food processor. Make sure they are finely ground for an even base.
In a bowl, combine the ladyfinger powder with melted butter, cocoa powder, and Amaretto. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.
Pour the mixture into the removable-bottom cake pan, pressing well to form an even layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the cream.

2. Preparing the cream cheese:
In a large bowl, add the creamy cottage cheese, sour cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and Amaretto. Mix the ingredients at medium speed until you obtain a smooth and homogeneous mixture.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. This step is essential for obtaining a smooth cream without lumps.

3. Baking the cheesecake:
Preheat the oven to 175°C. Pour the cream cheese over the prepared ladyfinger base. Bake the cheesecake for 45 minutes. It is important not to exceed this time; otherwise, the cheesecake may become dry.

4. Cooling:
Once the baking time is up, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for another 10-15 minutes with the door slightly open. Then, remove it and let it cool completely at room temperature. For best results, I recommend leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or at least 6 hours. This will help consolidate the flavors and texture.

5. Preparing the whipped cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the liquid cream with powdered sugar until fluffy, but don’t overdo it to avoid it becoming buttery. Finally, add Amaretto and mix gently.

6. Decorating:
In the meantime, to add a touch of elegance, you can coat the mint leaves in melted chocolate using the double boiler method. Once the chocolate has set, place the leaves in the freezer to keep them firm.

7. Assembling the cake:
Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, carefully remove the ring from the pan and place the cake on a serving platter. Pour the whipped cream in the center of the cake and use a spoon to create artistic waves.
Decorate with chocolate shavings and chocolate-coated mint leaves.

Serving and variations:
This cheesecake pairs perfectly with a glass of sweet wine or a cup of aromatic coffee. You can also add fresh berries or a fruit sauce for a touch of freshness.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace Amaretto with another liqueur? Yes, you can use another almond-flavored liqueur or, for a non-alcoholic version, you can use almond extract.
- What can I do if the cheesecake cracks? This often happens due to overbaking. Make sure to follow the baking times and do not open the oven too early.
- How do I store the cake? The cheesecake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-5 days.

Nutritional benefits:
This cheesecake is rich in protein due to the cottage cheese and eggs, and the sour cream adds a boost of calcium. Additionally, mint has antioxidant properties, and Amaretto adds a flavor note.

I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your taste. It can become a staple dessert in your culinary repertoire and will surely impress anyone who tastes it! Bon appétit!