Baked cheesecake

Baked cheesecake, also known as New York cheesecake, is an iconic dessert loved by many for its creamy texture and rich flavor. This recipe is one of the most cherished, considered by many to be the best. It is perfect for special occasions or simply to indulge on an ordinary day. Let me guide you step by step through this delicious adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Cooling time: 5 hours (minimum)
Total: Approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Required ingredients:

For the crust:
- 150 g digestive biscuits
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 100 g melted butter

For the filling:
- 500 g Philadelphia cream cheese (or another similar cheese)
- 150 g sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 eggs
- 80 g sour cream
- 160 g liquid cream

Preparing the crust:

1. Start by crushing the digestive biscuits. You can use a food processor to turn them into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a processor, place the biscuits in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin or a hammer. It’s an easy task that will bring you satisfaction!

2. Once you have fine crumbs, add the melted butter and sugar. Mix everything by hand until the butter is fully incorporated into the biscuits. This combination will form the delicious base of your cheesecake.

3. Press the biscuit mixture into the cake pan, ensuring it is even and well compacted. This step is essential for achieving a crunchy and tasty crust.

4. Wrap the cake pan in two layers of aluminum foil, folding the edges inward to prevent water leakage. Place the pan on a larger tray and fill it halfway with hot water. This trick will help bake the cheesecake evenly and prevent the crust from burning.

Preparing the filling:

1. Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator about 2 hours before you start preparing. This will allow the cheese to soften, making it easier to handle. If you have a food processor, you can go directly to the next step.

2. Cut the cheese into cubes and place it in the food processor (or in a bowl if using a mixer). Blend until it becomes a smooth and homogeneous paste.

3. Add the sugar and blend again for about 2-3 minutes, until the sugar is completely dissolved. It’s important to be patient in this step to achieve a perfect texture.

4. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. This will help prevent lumps from forming and ensure a creamy filling.

5. Continue by adding the vanilla extract, sour cream, and liquid cream, mixing well after each ingredient. It’s time to enjoy the enticing aroma of vanilla!

6. Carefully pour the cheese filling over the biscuit base in the cake pan.

Baking the cheesecake:

1. Preheat the oven to 165°C (325°F). It is essential that the temperature is constant to achieve a perfectly baked cheesecake.

2. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes. The cheesecake is done when, if you gently shake it, the center wobbles slightly but should not be liquid.

3. After baking, let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This step will help prevent cracks.

4. Once the cheesecake has cooled, you can start preparing a fruit gelatin sauce, which you will pour over the cheesecake, ensuring it is cooled but not completely set. Let it chill in the refrigerator for about 5 hours to firm up completely.

Serving:

Decorating the cheesecake is an essential part of the presentation. You can garnish it with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or even melted chocolate (ganache). These additions will not only enhance the appearance but also add an extra layer of flavor.

Practical tips:

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting; this will help achieve a uniform texture.
- If you want to add a personal touch, you can experiment with additional flavors, such as lemon or orange zest.
- The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Why does the cheesecake crack while baking?
- Cracks can occur due to rapid temperature changes. Make sure the cheesecake cools slowly in the oven.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can experiment with other types of cheese, but Philadelphia cheese is preferred for its creamy texture.

3. How can I tell when the cheesecake is done?
- Gently shake the pan; if the center wobbles like jelly, it’s done. After cooling, it will firm up.

4. Is a fruit sauce necessary?
- No, the cheesecake is delicious on its own, but the fruit sauce adds a pleasant contrast between sweet and tart.

This baked cheesecake recipe is a true culinary gem, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. Don’t hesitate to try this simple and delicious recipe! Regardless of the occasion, your cheesecake will surely be a guaranteed success!