Cappuccino and cheese cake

Cappuccino and Cheese Cake - A Sweet Delight for Spring

Spring brings a breath of fresh air, flowers begin to bloom, and the desire to indulge in sweet treats grows stronger. Today, I present to you a recipe that perfectly combines the intense flavor of cappuccino with the creaminess of cottage cheese: Cappuccino and Cheese Cake. This simple and delicious recipe will bring joy to your tables and turn any moment into a celebration.

Preparation Time

- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 40-45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 5 eggs + 1 egg white (make sure they are at room temperature for an airy texture)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 and 1/2 cups milk
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for added flavor)
- 3 tablespoons chocolate cappuccino (choose a quality one for an intense taste)
- 1 teaspoon rum essence
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 17-20 tablespoons flour (depending on the consistency of the batter)

For the filling:
- 1 kg and 200 g cottage cheese (make sure it is well-drained)
- 4 eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- Zest of one orange (for a fresh taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons flour (if the cheese is not drained enough)
- Coconut flakes (for decoration)
- Chocolate topping (for a perfect look and taste)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the base
1. Start by separating the eggs. Beat the egg whites with the sugar, adding it gradually, until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue. This is essential for giving volume to the cake.
2. Add the egg yolks one at a time, incorporating them well into the egg white mixture, mixing gently.
3. Pour in the milk and rum essence, stirring lightly, then incorporate the baking powder, cappuccino, and cocoa powder.
4. Begin adding the flour, one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently until the mixture becomes smooth. Avoid overmixing, as you want to keep the air in the egg whites.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
1. In a separate bowl, thoroughly mash the cottage cheese. Ensure there are no lumps for a smooth texture.
2. Beat the eggs with the sugar and pour the mixture over the cheese. Add the vanilla essence, vanilla sugar, and orange zest. Mix well. If the cheese is not drained enough, add 1-2 tablespoons of flour to achieve a firmer consistency.

Step 3: Assembling the cake
1. Prepare a rectangular baking dish greased with butter and lined with parchment paper.
2. Pour 3/4 of the batter into the dish, leveling it evenly.
3. Using a spoon, add the cheese filling in different spots on the surface of the batter.
4. Pour the remaining batter over the filling, ensuring it is well covered.

Step 4: Baking
1. Preheat the oven to medium temperature (approximately 180°C).
2. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the dish.

Step 5: Decorating
1. After the cake has completely cooled, brush it with chocolate topping using a pastry brush. This will add an elegant look and a delightful taste.
2. Sprinkle coconut flakes on top for a delicious contrast and a crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions
This cappuccino and cheese cake pairs perfectly with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a fragrant tea. Serve it as a dessert at a gathering with friends or family and watch how each slice becomes a joy.

Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, well-drained cottage cheese to avoid a soggy filling.
- You can experiment with different cappuccino flavors or add melted chocolate to the filling for a more intense taste.
- This recipe can also be adapted to become a vegan cake by using alternatives for eggs and milk.

Nutritional Benefits
Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and B vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet. Additionally, cappuccino adds a boost of antioxidants and can be beneficial for metabolism.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
- Yes, you can experiment with ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a different texture.
2. How can I adapt the recipe to be gluten-free?
- Substitute the flour with gluten-free flour blends available in stores.
3. What can I do if I don’t have chocolate topping?
- You can opt for caramel sauce or simply sprinkle powdered sugar for a simple decoration.

Enjoy! This cappuccino and cheese cake is sure to become a favorite among your loved ones, and spring will take on an even sweeter taste. Wishing you a beautiful spring filled with joy and plenty of flowers!