Cheese Cake - Rakoczi

Cheese Cake - Rakoczi: A Sweet-Sour Delight

What could be more enjoyable than a slice of Rakoczi cheese cake, perfectly combining a crispy base with soft cheese cream, apricot sweetness, and a light egg foam? This cake is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a true work of art that will bring a smile to anyone who enjoys it. Let's discover together how we can prepare this delicacy in a few simple yet flavorful steps.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

For the base:
- 300 g flour
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- a pinch of salt

For the cheese cream:
- 500 g cottage cheese (ideally well-drained)
- 3 egg yolks
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- grated zest of one lemon

For the egg foam:
- egg whites from 4 eggs
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 200 g apricot jam or preserve (or any other preferred jam, such as raspberry or strawberry)

The story behind the Rakoczi cake:

This cheese cake has a long history, being a traditional recipe passed down through generations. It is said to have been created to bring a touch of joy to festive days and has been appreciated not only for its taste but also for its attractive appearance. Nowadays, Rakoczi is often prepared on special occasions, and each family has its own variation, adding a personal and unique element to the recipe.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the base:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour with the powdered sugar and a pinch of salt. It is important for the ingredients to be well combined to achieve an even base.
- Add the pieces of butter (make sure they are at room temperature for easier incorporation) and the egg yolk. Using your fingers, knead the mixture until it becomes a homogeneous and slightly crumbly mass.
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper, applying the dough mixture. Use your fingertips to spread it evenly, ensuring that the entire tray is well covered.

2. Baking the base:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C. Once the oven is ready, place the tray inside and bake the sheet for 15 minutes, or until it turns slightly golden. This step is essential for achieving a crispy base that will support all the other layers.

3. Preparing the cheese cream:
- In another bowl, blend the cottage cheese with the powdered sugar, vanilla sugar, the three egg yolks, and the lemon zest. It is important for the cheese to be well-drained to avoid a too-wet mixture. Properly mixing the ingredients will ensure a fine and creamy texture.
- After removing the base from the oven (do not let it cool), spread the cheese cream on top, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

4. Baking the cream:
- Place the tray back in the oven and bake at moderate heat for 10 minutes. This will help set the cheese cream.

5. Adding the jam:
- After 10 minutes, take the cake out of the oven and add the apricot jam on top. This provides a delicious contrast to the cheese and perfectly complements the cake. Bake again for another 10 minutes.

6. Preparing the egg foam:
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the granulated sugar until you achieve a firm, glossy foam. This is an important moment, so make sure the bowl is completely clean, without any trace of grease.
- Using a pastry bag, create lines or decorative shapes on top of the cake. This will add an elegant touch and make the cake look spectacular.

7. Final baking:
- For the last time, place the cake in the oven and bake for 5 minutes, until the foam turns slightly golden.

8. Cooling and serving:
- Let the cake cool completely before cutting it. This step is crucial, as the foam will stabilize as the cake cools down.

Serving suggestions:
The cake can be served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures. A cup of tea or coffee will also pair perfectly with the sweetness of this cake.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use store-bought cottage cheese?
Yes, make sure it is well-drained to avoid a wet texture.

2. Can I replace the apricot jam with other fruits?
Certainly! You can use raspberry jam, strawberry jam, or even fresh fruits to add a touch of freshness.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of this cake?
Cottage cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, while the fruits add vitamins and antioxidants. Additionally, butter and sugar provide energy, but it is recommended to consume in moderation.

4. How long does the cake keep?
The cake keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it is best fresh.

5. Can I prepare the cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the cake a day before serving, and the flavor will become even more intense as the flavors meld together.

Now that you know how to prepare this Rakoczi cheese cake, all that is left is to gather the ingredients and enjoy a sweet moment with your loved ones. Savor each slice and turn any moment into a celebration!