Cheese cake

Cheesecake – an elegant and creamy dessert

If you are looking for a refined dessert that is easy to prepare, cheesecake is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the smooth texture of cheese with a crunchy crust, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or want to treat yourself on an ordinary day, this cake will surely impress. Let’s embark on this delightful process!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 10

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups (about 200 g) of crushed cookies (you can use plain or cocoa cookies for a more intense flavor)
- 6 tablespoons of melted butter
- 2 tablespoons of sugar

For the cheese cream:
- 750 g of cream cheese (like Philadelphia, but you can use other creamy cheeses)
- ¾ cup (about 150 g) of sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup (about 60 ml) of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons of grated lemon zest

For the topping:
- 400 ml of sour cream
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Detailed Instructions

1. Preparing the oven and the crust:
Start by preheating the oven to 160 degrees Celsius. This step is essential for achieving an even bake of the cake.

2. Preparing the crust:
In a large bowl, combine the crushed cookies with the melted butter and sugar. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. This base will add a pleasant contrast to the cheese cream.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 26 cm diameter cake pan, ensuring an even layer. Bake the crust in the oven for 10 minutes until it becomes lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.

3. The cheese cream:
In another bowl, add the cheese and mix until you achieve a smooth texture. This step is crucial; well-mixed cheese will ensure a more homogeneous cream.
Add the sugar and continue mixing. Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Then, add the lemon juice, grated lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until perfectly combined.

4. Baking the cake:
Pour the cheese cream over the cookie crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Bake the cake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
After 30 minutes, remove the cake from the oven and pour the sour cream mixed with sugar and vanilla extract on top. This will create a delicious and creamy layer on top. Continue baking for another 10 minutes.

5. Cooling the cake:
Once you finish baking, let the cake cool slowly in the turned-off oven with the door slightly ajar. This step helps prevent the cake from cracking.
After it has completely cooled, refrigerate the cake overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop and make the cake even more delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Variations
Cheesecake can be served plain or topped with lightly cooked berries with sugar, adding a tangy note that complements the sweetness of the cake. You can also choose other fruits, such as strawberries or peaches, to add a touch of freshness. Another interesting variation is adding melted chocolate to the cheese mixture for a chocolate cheesecake.

Nutritional Benefits
The cheese used in this recipe is an excellent source of calcium and protein, contributing to bone and muscle health. Additionally, the sour cream adds a boost of healthy fats, which can help maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone, but make sure they have a creamy consistency.

2. How can I avoid the cake from cracking?
Slow cooling is key. Make sure not to open the oven door during baking, and after the cake is done, let it cool inside the oven.

3. How long can the cake be kept in the fridge?
It can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, covered, to prevent drying out.

This cheesecake is not just a recipe but a culinary experience that brings joy and flavor in every slice. Once you try it, you will want to include it in your favorite menu, and your guests will surely come back for more. Enjoy every moment of preparing this simple yet elegant dessert!