Cheesecake with candied fruits

Candied Fruit Cheesecake: a sweet and refreshing delicacy

Who doesn't love a slice of creamy cheesecake, enriched with refined flavors and a hint of freshness? This candied fruit cheesecake is an excellent choice for any occasion, especially during festive periods when sweet cheese makes its presence felt in the most delicious desserts. Reflecting on culinary traditions and the joy of sharing special moments with loved ones, I decided to share with you the recipe for this cheesecake that will win over any heart.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10

The history of cheesecake is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary traditions throughout the centuries. This wonderful dessert has been part of festive meals and celebrations of many cultures, and today it is a symbol of joy and celebrations spent with family and friends.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg cottage cheese (preferably well-drained to avoid excess moisture)
- 1 vanilla pod (or 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract)
- 100 g raisins (soaked in rum for added flavor)
- 3 eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 cup sour cream (about 200 g)
- 150 g sugar (you can adjust the amount to your liking)
- 1 packet of mixed candied fruits (for decoration and added flavor)
- 50 ml liquid cream (for a creamy topping)
- 2 teaspoons powdered sugar (to sweeten the cream)
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (for a hint of freshness)

Step by step for a perfect cheesecake:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure the cottage cheese is well-drained, so the cheesecake doesn't become too wet. If you have time, let the cheese come to room temperature to better integrate with the other ingredients.

2. Mixing the composition: In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, and seeds from the vanilla pod. Use a mixer or a high-speed blender to achieve a fine and smooth mixture. Add the sour cream and mix until everything is well incorporated.

3. Preparing the raisins: If you want an extra flavor, soak the raisins in a little rum for 15-20 minutes. This step is optional, but it will enhance the dessert's taste.

4. Incorporate the raisins: After they have been hydrated, add the raisins to the cheesecake mixture and gently fold in with a spatula to distribute them evenly.

5. Preparing the pan: Line a springform pan with parchment paper so that the cheesecake is easy to remove after baking.

6. Bain-marie: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, then place the pan in a larger pan, adding hot water halfway up the cheesecake pan. This method will help bake the cake evenly and prevent it from cracking.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and bake the cheesecake for about 1 hour. Check if it's done by using a toothpick – it should come out clean without any residue.

8. Slow cooling: Once the cheesecake is baked, turn off the oven but leave the cake inside to cool slowly. This step is essential to prevent the cheese from deflating.

9. Decorate and serve: After it has completely cooled, remove the cheesecake from the pan and place it on a platter. Whip the liquid cream and add the powdered sugar and yogurt for a creamy and delicious topping. Cover the cheesecake with the whipped cream and sprinkle the candied fruits on top for a vibrant and appetizing look.

10. Enjoy: This delight is served cold, and each slice will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. I recommend pairing it with a warm drink, such as a flavored coffee or a fruit tea, which will perfectly complement the taste of this cheesecake.

Useful tips:
- If you want to experiment, you can add other candied fruits or even nuts for a crunchy texture.
- The cheesecake can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it's unlikely to last that long!
- An interesting variation is to replace the cottage cheese with mascarpone for a richer flavor.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, but the cheesecake will have a slightly different texture and will be less creamy.

2. How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Make sure not to open the oven during baking and use the bain-marie method.

3. Can I replace the eggs?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute, such as banana puree or yogurt, but the texture will be different.

This candied fruit cheesecake is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that will bring joy and good cheer to any occasion. I encourage you to prepare it and create unforgettable moments with your loved ones!