Cheesecake

Cheesecake is a classic dessert, easy to prepare, that adds a touch of indulgence to every special moment. With a creamy texture and a crunchy cookie base, this recipe perfectly blends sweetness with a slightly tangy note, thanks to the fruit jam. Whether you're making it for a party, an anniversary, or simply to enjoy a sweet treat, the cheesecake is sure to impress all your loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:
- 1 pack of plain cookies (about 200 g)
- 50 g butter (at room temperature, not melted)
- 1 box of Philadelphia cream cheese (200 g)
- 2 boxes of liquid cream (about 400 g)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 packet of gelatin (preferably lemon-flavored, for extra aroma and color)

Useful for preparation:
- Food processor or a bowl and a cookie crusher
- Baking pan or cake mold
- Electric mixer
- A small pot for the gelatin

Brief history:
Cheesecake has deep historical roots, having been consumed over the centuries in various forms. It has evolved from a simple combination of cheese and honey to a sophisticated delicacy with varied flavors and textures. Today, cheesecake is loved worldwide and is often associated with moments of celebration and joy.

Steps for preparation:
1. Preparing the cookie base:
Start by crushing the cookies. You can use a food processor to achieve a fine powder or, if you prefer the traditional method, place the cookies in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Add the butter at room temperature and mix very well by hand until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

2. Forming the base:
Take a baking pan or cake mold, about 22 cm in size, and press the cookie mixture into the bottom. Use a spoon or the bottom of a glass to ensure that the base is compact and even. It is essential to get a solid base to support the cream cheese.

3. Preparing the filling:
In a large bowl, add the Philadelphia cream cheese, liquid cream, and sugar. In a small pot, bring a glass of water to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the gelatin and stir well until completely dissolved. It is essential not to leave it on the heat too long, so it doesn't lose its properties.

4. Mixing the ingredients:
Once the gelatin has dissolved, pour it over the mixture in the bowl and mix everything with the mixer on low speed for about a minute. You will obtain a creamy and homogeneous mixture that will easily pour over the cookie base.

5. Cooling:
Pour the cheese mixture over the cookie base, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until it sets well. Patience is key to achieving a perfect result!

6. Finalizing:
After the cheesecake has set, you can add a layer of cherry, sour cherry, or currant jam on top to add a tangy note that will contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cheese. It is recommended to use jam at room temperature for easier spreading.

7. Serving:
Cheesecake can be served plain, but for an extra touch of refinement, add freshly whipped cream on top. This will bring an airy texture and perfectly complement the flavors.

Useful tips:
- Cookies: Choose plain cookies, such as digestive or petit beurre. If you want a more intense flavor, you can use cocoa cookies.
- Gelatin: Using lemon-flavored gelatin adds not only flavor but also a pleasant hue. If you prefer, you can opt for unflavored gelatin and color it with a natural food dye.
- Fruits: Cheesecake can be personalized with different jams or even fresh fruits. Berries are an excellent option for decoration.
- Variations: You can add flavors like vanilla or cinnamon to the cheese mixture to enrich its taste. You can also add chocolate chips or crushed nuts to the mixture for added texture.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why don’t I melt the butter? The butter mixes better with the cookies at room temperature, providing a crunchy texture to the base.
- What if the cheesecake doesn’t set? Make sure you used the gelatin correctly. If the cheesecake didn’t set, you may not have added enough gelatin or didn’t leave it in the fridge long enough.
- Can I make the cheesecake a day in advance? Absolutely! Cheesecake keeps excellently in the fridge and gets even better as the flavors meld together.

Delicious combinations:
Cheesecake pairs perfectly with a refreshing drink, such as fruit tea or a fruit cocktail. Additionally, a glass of champagne or sweet wine can turn serving into a festive occasion.

In conclusion, cheesecake is not just a simple dessert, but a delicacy that can become the star of any meal. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you will be able to impress anyone, no matter the occasion. Enjoy every slice and cherish the beautiful moments spent with your loved ones!