German cheesecake

German Cheese Cake – A Delicacy That Will Sweeten Your Days

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

If you are looking for a quick and simple dessert that will impress with every bite, then the German cheese cake is the perfect choice. This recipe is not just a simple cake, but a delicious combination of textures and flavors, reminding you of the cakes lovingly made by grandmothers.

The history of this cake is lost in the mists of time, being a beloved dish in many cultures, with variations found in kitchens around the world. Cottage cheese, a simple ingredient, transforms this dessert into a true masterpiece, providing considerable nutritional benefits as it is rich in protein and calcium.

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 1 egg
- 75 g butter (at room temperature)
- 75 g sugar
- 200 g flour
- 1 baking powder
- 1 vanilla essence
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 500 g cottage cheese (preferably fresh)
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 100 g sugar
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 vanilla essence

For decoration:
- 4 egg whites
- 100 g sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the crust

Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. In a large bowl, add the egg, soft butter, sugar, vanilla essence, and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to blend the ingredients until you achieve a creamy and smooth mixture.

2. Kneading the dough

Add the flour mixed with baking powder. Knead the dough until it becomes non-sticky and smooth. If the dough is too soft, you can add a little more flour. Once you have the perfect dough, shape it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 20 minutes.

3. Preparing the filling

While the dough cools, you can prepare the filling. In another bowl, place the cottage cheese and mix it well until it becomes creamy. Add the sugar and vanilla essence. Incorporate the egg yolks one by one, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the sour cream and cornstarch, continuing to mix until you achieve a smooth mixture. If the cheese is too dry, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of sour cream or a little milk to achieve a finer cream.

4. Assembling the cake

Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out in a detachable ring pan (24 cm diameter), raising it slightly on the edges to form a border about 3 cm high. Pour the cheese filling into the center, leveling the surface well.

5. Baking

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the filling starts to develop a golden crust. At the end of this time, remove the cake from the oven to add the meringue.

6. Preparing the meringue

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a glossy meringue that holds peaks. Once the cake is baked, pipe the meringue on top of the filling (you can choose to spread it evenly with a spatula).

7. Finishing the baking

Return the cake to the oven for another 20 minutes, or until the meringue becomes golden. After this time, open the oven door and reduce the temperature to minimum, allowing the cake to cool in the oven for 1 hour. This step will help stabilize the meringue.

8. Cooling and serving

After the time has expired, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, remove the detachable ring and cut it into generous slices.

Chef's Tip

To add a personal touch to this cake, you can add some berries to the cheese filling or sprinkle some chopped almonds or walnuts on top of the meringue. These will not only enhance the cake's appearance but also add an interesting texture.

Delicious Combinations

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit sauce. Additionally, a cup of green tea or a strong espresso accentuates the delicate flavors of the cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta, but make sure the texture is similar for optimal results.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with a banana paste or applesauce and use vegan butter.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is not only delicious but also nutritious. Cottage cheese is rich in protein, and the sour cream adds a good source of healthy fats. The flour is part of the carbohydrate group, providing energy, while sugar, although consumed in moderation, adds a sweet and pleasant taste.

In conclusion, the German cheese cake is a simple recipe that combines tradition with modernity, being suitable for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a gathering with friends or at a family celebration, it is impossible not to be appreciated. So, put on your apron, follow the steps carefully, and enjoy the final result!