Cheesecake with rum and coffee

Rum and Coffee Cheesecake: A Flavorful Delight for the Holidays

The holidays are a special time, filled with warmth and joy, and nothing compares to the aroma of a freshly baked cheesecake that combines the unmistakable taste of cheese with delicate notes of rum and coffee. This rum and coffee cheesecake recipe is perfect to enjoy alongside a creamy cappuccino or a hot tea, bringing a touch of comfort to the cold winter days. Moreover, it is a relatively simple recipe that can be made in a few hours but is sure to impress your guests.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8

A Brief History of Cheesecake

Cheesecake has a long history, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Over time, it has evolved from a simple combination of cheese and honey to sophisticated desserts that include chocolate, fruits, and various flavors. This rum and coffee version is inspired by modern traditions, where coffee is not just a drink but also a key ingredient in dessert preparation.

Ingredients

*For the crust:*
- 150 g digestive biscuits
- 50 g butter
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar

*For the cheesecake:*
- 250 g cream cheese (make sure it's at room temperature for easy incorporation)
- 150 ml liquid cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 1 packet of Ness (or instant coffee)
- 100 ml rum
- 70 ml brewed coffee (you can use espresso for a stronger flavor)
- 2 eggs
- 3-4 tablespoons flour

*For the chocolate ganache:*
- 100 g chocolate with 55% cocoa
- 50 ml liquid cream

Step by Step: Preparing the Cheesecake

1. Preparing the crust
- Start by crushing the digestive biscuits in a food processor or in a bowl using a rolling pin until you achieve a fine texture. These will form the delicious base of your cheesecake.
- In a bowl, combine the crushed biscuits with the powdered sugar and melted butter. Mix well until the mixture becomes homogeneous.
- Press the mixture into a springform pan (16 cm in diameter) to form an even layer. Use the bottom of a glass to press it down well.
- Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10 minutes. This step will help firm up the base and provide a deeper flavor.

2. Preparing the cheesecake
- In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese with the powdered sugar until it becomes smooth and creamy. You can use an electric mixer for the best results.
- In another bowl, mix the brewed coffee with the rum and the packet of Ness. Add this mixture to the cream cheese and incorporate well.
- Add the liquid cream, eggs, and cocoa, and continue mixing until all ingredients are perfectly integrated.
- Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing gently to avoid lumps. The mixture should be smooth and homogeneous.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked crust and level the surface with a spatula.

3. Baking the cheesecake
- To prevent the cheesecake from cracking, place a pan of water in the oven on the shelf below. This will create steam, keeping moisture in the oven.
- Bake the cheesecake at 180°C for about 25 minutes. Use the toothpick test to check if it’s done - the toothpick should come out clean from the center of the cheesecake.
- Once baked, let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours (ideally, leave it overnight).

4. Preparing the chocolate ganache
- In a bowl, melt the chocolate over a double boiler until it becomes liquid. Add the liquid cream and mix vigorously until you achieve a smooth and glossy composition.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the cooled cheesecake, allowing it to flow gently over the edges for a decorative effect.

5. Serving and variations
- Serve the cooled cheesecake, cut into slices, alongside a cup of cappuccino or hot tea. This dessert pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for a contrast of textures and flavors.
- A delicious variation would be to add some chopped nuts or hazelnuts to the cheesecake mixture for a surprising crunch.

Useful tips for a perfect cheesecake
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using them. This will help achieve a uniform consistency.
- Do not open the oven during baking, as temperature changes can cause cracks.
- The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, and the flavors will intensify as it sits.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another type of biscuit for the crust?
Yes, digestive biscuits can be replaced with cocoa biscuits or even a nut-based crust if you want a gluten-free option.

- How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Besides using a pan of water, it’s important not to overmix the batter, as excess air can lead to cracks.

Nutritional values and calories
Each serving of cheesecake contains approximately 350 calories, with a high protein content due to the cheese and eggs. Additionally, the coffee and rum provide an extra boost of antioxidants, while chocolate offers benefits due to its flavonoid content.

So, gather your ingredients, put on a playlist of your favorite songs, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of cooking! The rum and coffee cheesecake will surely become a favorite recipe during the holiday season, bringing joy and flavor in every slice. Enjoy!