Citrus-flavored cheesecake with caramelized orange peel

Citrus-flavored cheesecake with caramelized orange peel

If you are looking for a special dessert that combines sweetness with a touch of fresh acidity, the citrus-flavored cheesecake with caramelized orange peel is the perfect choice! This recipe is not just a feast for the taste buds, but also a true work of art that will impress any guest. Moreover, it is an easy-to-make dessert, perfect for any occasion. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients:

For the base:
- 150 g crushed biscuits
- 150 g roasted and crushed walnuts
- 125 g soft margarine

For the filling:
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- Caramelized orange peel
- Small pieces of tangerines
- 1 packet of gelatin (10 g)

For the jelly:
- Juice from 2 oranges
- 1 packet of jelly for cake

For decoration:
- 4-5 small tangerines, peeled and sliced into rounds

Preparation:

1. Preparing the base:
Start by preparing the cheesecake base. In a large bowl, mix the crushed biscuits with the roasted and crushed walnuts. These ingredients not only provide a crunchy texture, but the walnuts also add a deep flavor. Then add the soft margarine and mix well until you get a homogeneous mixture that holds well when pressed.

2. Forming the base:
Line a round cake pan with a diameter of 22 cm with baking paper to facilitate the removal of the cheesecake after cooling. Spread the biscuit and walnut mixture into the pan, gently pressing down with the back of a spoon to form an even layer. Make sure the base is well compacted so it does not crumble when served.

3. Caramelizing the orange peel:
Cut the peel from 2 oranges into small cubes. In a pan, add the peel cubes and a cup of sugar, then place them over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar melts and becomes a soft caramel. This step will add a bittersweet note that perfectly complements the citrus flavors.

4. Preparing the filling:
In a separate bowl, whip the liquid cream until it becomes stiff. Add the lemon juice and orange juice, mixing gently. Incorporate the caramelized orange peel and small pieces of tangerines, providing a burst of freshness and color to the filling.

5. Preparing the gelatin:
Soak the gelatin in 100 ml of cold water for about 5 minutes. Then, melt the gelatin in a bain-marie and add it to the cream mixture. Mix gently to avoid losing the air from the cream.

6. Assembling the cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the biscuit base, making sure to distribute it evenly. Decorate the edge of the pan with tangerine slices for an attractive appearance. Cover the cheesecake with foil and let it cool in the fridge for 2 hours to set.

7. Preparing the jelly:
After the cheesecake has set, prepare the jelly. Boil the orange juice and dissolve the packet of jelly according to the instructions on the package. Pour the hot jelly over the cheesecake and let it chill in the fridge for another 30 minutes, or until the jelly sets.

8. Serving:
Once the cheesecake has completely set, remove it from the fridge. Carefully remove the pan and serve it sliced. You can add, for an extra touch of refinement, a few fresh mint leaves on top of each slice.

Practical tips:
- Use digestive biscuits or any type of biscuits you prefer for the base. Their flavor will influence the final taste of the cheesecake.
- If you don't have gelatin on hand, you can substitute with agar-agar for a vegetarian option.
- The caramelized orange peel can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Nutritional benefits:
This cheesecake is not only delicious but also healthier compared to other desserts. The walnuts provide healthy fats and protein, while the citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, essential for strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of fruit for the topping?
Sure, you could use berries, kiwi, or even mango for an exotic variation!

2. How can I make the cheesecake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use unsweetened cream.

3. Can the cheesecake be frozen?
Yes, the cheesecake can be frozen, but make sure it is well covered to prevent flavor loss.

This citrus-flavored cheesecake with caramelized orange peel is not just a refined dessert but also a true culinary experience. Try it and enjoy every bite, sharing it with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!