Raspberry cheesecake

Raspberry Cheesecake - A Refreshing Summer Treat

Who doesn't love a dessert that combines the creaminess of delicious cheese with the freshness of seasonal fruits? Raspberry cheesecake is the perfect choice for warm summer days, bringing a touch of coolness and joy to every slice. This dessert is not only easy to prepare but will also earn you plenty of compliments from your loved ones. Let's discover the recipe step by step!

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: at least 5 hours (ideally overnight)
Servings: 10

Necessary ingredients:

For the crust:
- 120 g Petit Beurre cookies
- 70 g unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:
- 500 g mascarpone cheese
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 250 ml heavy cream (30% fat)
- Fresh raspberries (about 300 g, but feel free to use as much as you like)

Preparing the crunchy crust:

1. Crushing the cookies: Start by breaking the Petit Beurre cookies into smaller pieces and placing them in a food processor. Blend until you achieve a fine powder. If you don't have a processor, you can put them in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin - a classic but effective method.

2. Mixing with butter: Pour the melted butter over the crushed cookies and mix well until all the cookies are evenly coated. This combination will create a crunchy and delicious base for your cheesecake.

3. Forming the crust: Take a springform pan (ideally 22 cm) and transfer the cookie mixture inside. Use the bottom of a glass or a spatula to press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, ensuring it is even and well compacted.

4. Baking the crust: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the pan in the oven for about 10 minutes. This step will firm up the crust, giving it a crunchy texture. After baking, allow it to cool completely.

Creating the creamy filling:

5. Preparing the mascarpone: In a large bowl, add the mascarpone cheese and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to blend them at medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a fine and delicious texture.

6. Incorporating the cream: Add the heavy cream and continue mixing, but this time at low speed to avoid incorporating too much air. Mix until you obtain a homogeneous mixture, but be careful not to overmix.

Assembling the cheesecake:

7. Adding the filling: Once the crust has cooled completely, pour an even layer of the mascarpone cream over the cookie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the surface.

8. The raspberry layer: Add a thin layer of fresh raspberries on top of the cream. This will not only add a wonderful flavor but also create an attractive appearance.

9. Finishing the cheesecake: Pour the remaining mascarpone cream over the raspberries, leveling the surface again. Then, decorate with the remaining raspberries, arranging them nicely on top.

10. Cooling: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours. Ideally, let it chill overnight to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

Serving and presentation:

Once the cheesecake has chilled, it's time to remove it from the pan. Cut it with a wet knife to achieve clean slices. You can serve the raspberry cheesecake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a berry sauce for an extra flavor boost. It’s also delicious paired with a cup of green tea or a strong espresso, which will perfectly contrast the sweetness of the dessert.

Tips and useful advice:

- Raspberries: Choose fresh, ripe raspberries for the best flavor. If you can't find fresh raspberries, you can use frozen ones, but make sure to let them thaw and drain well before using.

- Mascarpone cheese: Ensure that the mascarpone cheese is at room temperature before using it, so it incorporates more easily.

- Variations: Feel free to experiment with other berries, such as blueberries or blackberries, to create a personalized version of this cheesecake. You can also add a few drops of vanilla extract to the cheese mixture for an extra flavor boost.

- Nutritional benefits: Raspberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them a healthy ingredient for your desserts. Additionally, mascarpone cheese provides a source of calcium and protein.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mascarpone with Philadelphia cream cheese, but the texture and taste will be slightly different.

2. How can I make the cheesecake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar according to your preferences. Additionally, the raspberries add a natural acidity that will balance the sweetness.

3. Can the cheesecake be frozen?
Yes, the cheesecake can be frozen. Make sure it is well covered to prevent freezer burn. When you want to serve it, let it thaw slowly in the refrigerator.

So, I invite you to try this simple raspberry cheesecake recipe, a perfect dessert for the warm summer days. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this cheesecake will surely win you over. Enjoy every slice and cherish the moments spent around the table with your loved ones!