Cheesecake with blueberry jam

Blueberry Jam Cheesecake: A Creamy Delight for the Holidays

Happy Birthday, Ela! Today, instead of the promised cake, I decided to bring you a dessert that I hope will put a smile on your face. Blueberry jam cheesecake is an excellent choice for any occasion, offering a perfect blend of creaminess and sweetness, with the fresh taste of blueberries beautifully complementing it. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile, so get ready to enjoy a quick dessert that will delight your senses!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: Approximately 4 hours (including cooling)
Servings: 8

Ingredients needed

For the crust:
- 200 g plain biscuits (you can also use digestive biscuits for a richer flavor)
- 100 g unsalted butter (to better control the saltiness)

For the filling:
- 500 g full-fat cream cheese (opt for fresh cheese for a smoother texture)
- 150 g sugar (adjust the amount according to your sweetness preference)
- 200 ml heavy cream (make sure it's cold for a whipped texture)
- 3 eggs (at room temperature for better blending)
- Candied orange peel (for a touch of unique flavor)

Making the Cheesecake

1. Prepare the crust
Start by crushing the biscuits. Use a food processor to achieve fine crumbs. If you have a sweet tooth, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar to this mixture. Then, melt the butter and mix it with the biscuit crumbs. Stir well until you get a texture similar to wet sand.

Helpful tip: If you want a crunchier base, you can bake the crust at 180°C for 10-12 minutes before adding the filling. This step will enhance the flavor of the biscuits.

2. Form the crust
Take a 24 cm springform pan and evenly sprinkle the biscuit mixture on the bottom. Use a spatula or the bottom of a glass to press the crust firmly, ensuring it's well compacted. Place the pan in the fridge while you prepare the filling.

3. Prepare the filling
In a large bowl, add the cream cheese, sugar, heavy cream, eggs, and candied orange peel. Use an immersion blender to mix everything until you achieve a smooth and homogenous cream. Taste the mixture and adjust the sugar if needed.

Tip: If you enjoy a slightly tangy note, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.

4. Assemble and bake
Remove the crust from the fridge and carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over it. Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 170°C). Place a baking dish with water at the bottom of the oven to create a humid environment, which will prevent the cheesecake from cracking. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center is slightly soft.

5. Cooling
Once the cheesecake is done, let it cool in the pan. Then, refrigerate it for a few hours, ideally overnight, to firm up and develop its flavors.

6. Serving
When you're ready to serve, cut the cheesecake into slices and serve it with blueberry jam. You can also add some fresh fruit for a more appealing presentation. This combination not only looks stunning but also perfectly complements the creamy texture of the cheesecake.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can experiment with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a different texture.

- What other jams can I use?
Any berry jam, such as raspberry or blackberry, will pair wonderfully with this cheesecake.

- Is it possible to make the cheesecake without eggs?
Absolutely! You can replace the eggs with a mixture of 1 mashed banana or 1/4 cup of applesauce to keep the filling moist.

Nutritional Benefits
This cheesecake contains cream cheese, an excellent source of protein and calcium, while the blueberry jam adds beneficial antioxidants. Additionally, the heavy cream contributes healthy fats, but it's important to consume it in moderation. Each serving offers approximately 350 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions
For an extra touch of elegance, you can add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the cheesecake or even a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce. A cup of coffee or a fragrant tea will perfectly complement the tasting experience.

This blueberry jam cheesecake is more than just a dessert – it's an experience that will bring you joy and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to share the recipe with friends and family, turning every occasion into a celebration of flavor! Enjoy!