Cheesecake with milk cream and cherry jam

Cheesecake with Milk Cream and Cherry Jam

Who doesn't love a creamy cheesecake with a delicious flavor and a topping of cherry jam? This recipe is perfect for impressing your loved ones, whether it's for a party, a birthday, or a simple evening at home. Plus, it will be your first cheesecake, so let's embark on this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 10

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 200 g ladyfingers
- 100 g plain biscuits
- 120 g butter

For the filling:
- 500 g cottage cheese (preferably organic or homemade)
- 150 g sugar
- 15 ml rum essence (recommended Dr. Oetker)
- 500 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

For the topping:
- Cherry jam (fresh or store-bought)

Preparation

1. Preparing the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This is the ideal temperature for baking the cheesecake evenly, ensuring it browns nicely.

2. Preparing the pan: Choose a round pan with a removable bottom (this will allow it to be easily removed after baking). Line the bottom of the pan with a greased parchment paper and grease the sides to prevent sticking.

3. Preparing the crust: In a food processor, crush the ladyfingers and biscuits until they become a fine powder. If you don't have a food processor, you can place them in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Melt the butter in a small bowl in the microwave for 30 seconds, then mix it with the biscuit mixture. Press this mixture into the pan to form an even layer. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove it and let it cool.

4. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the sugar until you achieve a smooth paste. If you want a finer texture, you can use a blender. In another bowl, beat the eggs and add the rum essence, then incorporate them into the cheese mixture.

5. Preparing the milk cream: In a saucepan, heat the milk together with the cornstarch, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. When the mixture becomes thick and creamy, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then mix it with the cheese cream until well combined.

6. Baking the cheesecake: Pour the filling over the baked crust and level the surface. Bake the cheesecake in the oven for 45-50 minutes, until the center is firm but slightly jiggly. Allow it to cool in the pan for a bit, then transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours or ideally overnight.

7. Serving: Before serving, add the cherry jam on top of the cheesecake for an attractive look and delicious flavor. This dessert is perfect served alongside a cup of hot cocoa or tea, especially on cool evenings.

Chef's tip
- If you don't have access to fresh cottage cheese, you can use mascarpone or ricotta, but cottage cheese offers an authentic taste and specific texture for the cheesecake.
- Try adding some fresh cherries or raspberries on top for a contrast of textures and flavors.
- If you want a less sweet cheesecake, reduce the sugar by 50 g.

Nutritional benefits
This cheesecake recipe offers a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, thanks to the ingredients used. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of calcium and protein, while cherries provide beneficial antioxidants for health.

Frequently asked questions

1. What can I do if I don't have ladyfingers? You can use digestive biscuits or even Oreo cookies for a more intense flavor.

2. Can I use another flavor instead of rum? Absolutely! You can try vanilla or almond essence to customize the flavor of the cheesecake.

3. How can I tell if the cheesecake is done? The cheesecake is done when the edges are firm, but the center is slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.

4. Is there a dairy-free version? Yes! You can use nut-based vegan cheese or tofu and plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.

This cheesecake with milk cream and cherry jam is definitely a recipe that blends tradition with innovation. Whether it's your first attempt or you've experimented in the past, the result will be a dessert that brings smiles to everyone's faces. I wish you success and bon appétit!