Quince Cheesecake

Quince Cheesecake: an explosion of flavor and warmth in every slice

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10

When autumn takes hold, there’s nothing more comforting than the sweet-tart aroma of baked quinces. This quince cheesecake recipe will not only fill your home with an inviting fragrance but will also become the star of your seasonal desserts. It’s a perfect combination of the creamy texture of cheese and the natural sweetness of quinces, and each slice is a true celebration of flavors.

Let’s start the culinary adventure!

Necessary ingredients:

For the crust:
- 200 g biscuits (preferably cocoa biscuits for an intense flavor)
- 150 g butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa

For the filling:
- 400 g cream cheese (make sure it’s at room temperature for easier incorporation)
- 200 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 110 ml liquid cream (for extra creaminess)
- 350 g quince puree (about 4-6 medium quinces, peeled)
- 3 eggs (at room temperature)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (to add a warm note)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (a classic autumn flavor)
- whipped cream for decoration (optional, but highly recommended)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the crust:
Start by preheating the oven to 160°C. If you have a food processor, place the biscuits in it and pulse until you get fine crumbs. If not, you can put them in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin - it will be a fun activity!

Mix the biscuit crumbs with cocoa powder and melted butter in a large bowl. Make sure all ingredients are well integrated, obtaining a moist mixture.

Pour the mixture into the cake pan (preferably with a removable bottom) and press well with a spatula or the bottom of a glass to form an even crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator to firm up while you prepare the filling.

2. Preparing the quince puree:
Peel the quinces and remove the seeds, then cut them into cubes. Boil them in boiling water for about 20 minutes or until they become soft. Once they have cooled, drain them and puree them with a hand blender until you get a smooth puree.

Pass the puree through a sieve to remove any larger pieces and achieve a fine texture. The final quantity should be about 350 g.

3. Preparing the filling:
In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese with the sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the liquid cream and mix again.

Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the quince puree, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix gently until well combined.

4. Baking the cheesecake:
Remove the crust from the refrigerator and pour the cheese filling over it. Level the surface with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. The cheesecake is ready when the edges are firm, but the center is slightly wobbly.

Once the time is up, let the cheesecake cool in its pan. It’s important not to remove it immediately from the pan, as it may crack. After it has completely cooled, you can transfer it to a serving plate.

5. Finishing and serving:
Decorate the cheesecake with whipped cream, giving it an elegant appearance. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving, to firm up completely and intensify the flavors.

Useful tips and tricks:
- You can add a splash of lemon juice to the quince puree to enhance the flavor.
- If you want a lighter version, you can use cottage cheese instead of cream cheese, but make sure it’s well drained.
- Instead of cocoa biscuits, you can use cereal biscuits or even crushed cake.

Nutritional benefits:
Quinces are an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Combined with cheese, this cheesecake becomes not only a delicious dessert but also a healthier choice compared to other sweets.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned quinces?
Yes, but make sure they are well drained of liquid to avoid affecting the texture of the cheesecake.

2. How long does the cheesecake last in the refrigerator?
It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, well covered.

3. Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes, but it is recommended to freeze it before adding the whipped cream.

4. What drinks pair well with quince cheesecake?
A cup of herbal tea or a sweet white wine would be perfect accompaniments for this dessert.

Enjoy this quince cheesecake recipe! Whether it’s a gathering with friends or a family dinner, this dessert will bring a smile to everyone’s faces. Let the flavors of autumn carry you away and savor every slice!