Berry cheesecake

Berry Cheesecake - A Refreshing and Creamy Delight

Who doesn't love a creamy cheesecake, bursting with flavors, topped with fresh berries? This elegant dessert is not only a perfect treat for special moments but also an excellent choice for a relaxing afternoon. In this recipe, I will share with you the necessary steps to achieve a berry cheesecake that will surely impress anyone. We will use a combination of simple and delicious ingredients, and the result will be a refined and flavorful dessert.

Total preparation time: 4 hours (including cooling time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 275 g digestive biscuits (or petit beurre biscuits, which are delicious and require no added sugar)
- 100 g sugar (optional, only if the biscuits are unsweetened)
- 130 g butter (melted)

For the cream:
- 300 g creamy yogurt
- 300 g mascarpone cheese
- 150 g sour cream
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 500 ml liquid cream
- 2 packets gelatin (approximately 14 g)
- 4-5 tablespoons sugar for the cream

For the fruit mixture:
- 500 g blueberries (thawed if frozen)
- 300 g pitted cherries (thawed if frozen)
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons water
- 3 teaspoons cornstarch

Preparation

1. Preparing the crust:
Start by crushing the biscuits as finely as possible. This process can be done with a food processor, but you can also use a bowl and a rolling pin. If you are using sweet biscuits, you can skip adding sugar. Mix the crushed biscuits with the melted butter and sugar (if applicable) until you have a homogeneous mixture.

Then, line a springform pan (26 cm) with this mixture, pressing down well to create an even layer. Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes. This step will help the crust become a little firmer and not crumble when served. After baking, let it cool completely.

2. Preparing the cream:
While the crust is cooling, prepare the filling. Start by soaking the gelatin in 6 tablespoons of cold water. Follow the instructions on the package to activate it.

In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone, sugar, yogurt, sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice. Mix well until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. Add the melted gelatin and mix again. Finally, gently fold in the whipped cream mixed with sugar using a spatula to maintain the airiness of the cream.

3. Assembling the cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled biscuit crust and level the surface with a spatula. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the dessert chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until it is well set.

4. Preparing the fruit mixture:
While the cheesecake is cooling, you can prepare the fruit topping. In a small saucepan, add the blueberries, cherries, sugar, and the 6 tablespoons of water. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved.

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and pour it over the fruit mixture. Continue to boil, stirring, until the mixture thickens. Let it cool well.

5. Serving:
Once the cheesecake is well set, remove it from the pan and carefully transfer it to a serving platter. Pour the fruit topping over the cheesecake, using a spoon to distribute it evenly.

Serving suggestions and variations:
This berry cheesecake pairs perfectly with a scoop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also experiment with other types of fruit, such as raspberries or strawberries, to create delicious combinations. If you want a more exotic note, add a few drops of almond extract to the cheesecake cream.

Nutritional benefits:
This cheesecake is not only delicious but also a good source of protein, thanks to ingredients like yogurt and mascarpone. Berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, adding freshness and health to the dessert. Additionally, it is a lighter option compared to other cakes, having approximately 350-400 calories per serving (depending on the ingredients used).

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of biscuits for the crust?
Yes, you can use graham crackers or even cocoa biscuits for a different flavor.

- Is it possible to make this cheesecake without gelatin?
You can use a plant-based gelatin substitute or omit the gelatin, but the cheesecake will not have the same firm texture.

- How can I store the cheesecake?
The cheesecake stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.

Now that you have all the necessary details, it's time to start cooking! This berry cheesecake recipe will surely become a favorite in your home. Treat your family and friends to an elegant dessert that is easy to make and will bring joy to every meal!