Cheesecake

Cheesecake – A Creamy Delight with a Crunchy Crust

Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes (10 minutes preparation, 15 minutes baking, 50 minutes baking)
Number of servings: 10 servings

In a world full of sophisticated desserts, cheesecake remains a timeless classic, adored by people of all ages. This creamy dessert with a crunchy crust has evolved over the decades, making its way into the hearts and on the tables of sweet lovers. From special occasions to weekend meals, cheesecake always brings a smile to the faces of those who enjoy it. Today, I will guide you step by step in making a perfect cheesecake, with a delicious crust made from Digestive biscuits and a creamy cheese filling.

Ingredients for the crust:
- 200 g Digestive biscuits (or plain biscuits)
- 50 ml melted butter

Ingredients for the cheese filling:
- 450 g cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 3 eggs (at room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1. Preparing the Crust:

The first step in creating this delicious cheesecake is to focus on the crust. Digestive biscuits are the perfect choice due to their crunchy texture and subtle buttery flavors. If you don't have Digestive biscuits on hand, you can use any other type of plain biscuits, but make sure they are crunchy.

- Step 1: Crumble the biscuits. Place the biscuits in a food processor and pulse until you achieve a fine crumb. If you don't have a food processor, you can place the biscuits in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin until they turn into crumbs.

- Step 2: Prepare the pan. Use a round pan with a diameter of 23 cm and a height of 4 cm. Grease the bottom and sides of the pan with a little butter to prevent sticking.

- Step 3: Mix the biscuits with the butter. In a bowl, mix the crushed biscuits with the melted butter. The mixture should have a moist consistency, similar to wet sand.

- Step 4: Form the crust. Pour the biscuit mixture into the prepared pan and press it firmly on the bottom and sides, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

- Step 5: Bake the crust. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the crust for 10-15 minutes, until it turns slightly golden. Allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.

2. Preparing the Cheese Filling:

The most important part of the cheesecake is undoubtedly the cheese filling. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.

- Step 1: In a large bowl, add the cream cheese and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to combine the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Avoid overmixing, as this can introduce air into the mixture and lead to cracks in the cheesecake during baking.

- Step 2: Add the heavy cream and gently fold it in with a spatula or mix on low speed until incorporated.

- Step 3: Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is well blended before adding the next.

- Step 4: Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice. These ingredients not only add flavor but the lemon juice helps balance the sweetness of the cheese.

3. Baking the Cheesecake:

To achieve a perfect cheesecake without cracks, baking in a water bath is essential.

- Step 1: Pour the cheese filling over the cooled crust, leveling the surface with a spatula.

- Step 2: Prepare the water bath. Fill a larger baking dish with hot water and place the cheesecake pan in the center. The water should not touch the cheesecake rim, but just create steam in the oven.

- Step 3: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven at 160°C (325°F) for 50 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

- Step 4: Once the cheesecake is done, turn off the oven and let it cool slowly, with the oven door slightly ajar, for about an hour.

4. Cooling and Serving:

After the cheesecake has cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop and the cheesecake to firm up.

Serving suggestions:

For a personal touch, you can top the cheesecake with fresh fruit glaze, chocolate sauce, or a berry puree. Pay attention to presentation, as a cheesecake is best served on an elegant platter, alongside a glass of white wine or a cup of coffee.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Why does cheesecake crack? A cheesecake can crack due to overmixing or too high a temperature. Baking in a water bath helps maintain an even and moist temperature.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as ricotta or mascarpone, but the taste and texture will vary.

3. How can I freeze cheesecake? Cheesecake can be easily frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap and in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutritional benefits:

Cheesecake provides a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs. Additionally, the heavy cream adds a contribution of healthy fats. Of course, consumption should be moderate, considering the sugar content, but a slice of this special dessert can be a perfect treat for special occasions.

In conclusion, cheesecake is a versatile and easily customizable dessert that can become a favorite in every home. With every bite, you will enjoy its creamy texture and delicious flavors, and making it will turn any moment into a celebration. So, put on your chef's apron, get ready to explore, and enjoy the delight you have created!