Romanian cheesecake

Romanian cheesecake: a sweet delight that will enchant your senses

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 5 hours and 20 minutes (including resting time)
Number of servings: 10

The story of Romanian cheesecake

Romanian cheesecake is a beloved dessert that combines tradition with the authentic flavors of cottage cheese. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with deep roots in local culinary culture. The crunchy cookie crust and the smooth cheese cream blend perfectly, creating a savory contrast that will surely evoke pleasant memories and unforgettable moments with loved ones.

Necessary ingredients

*For the crust:*

- 1 large package of plain cookies (approximately 400 g)
- 150 g butter (preferably unsalted for a more balanced taste)

*For the cheese cream:*

- 1-1.5 kg cottage cheese (choose a soft, fresh, high-quality cheese)
- 250 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 1 vial of vanilla essence (for an aromatic taste)
- 2 eggs (at room temperature for better emulsification)
- 150 g sour cream (opt for high-fat sour cream for a creamier texture)
- juice of one lemon (approximately 50 ml, for a touch of freshness)
- about 200 ml milk (or as needed to achieve the desired consistency)
- whipped cream and fresh fruit for decoration (choose seasonal fruits to add a splash of color and flavor)

Step-by-step instructions

*Step 1: Preparing the crust*

1. Start by breaking the plain cookies into large pieces and placing them in a sturdy bag, which you will seal tightly. Use a rolling pin to crush them until you obtain fine crumbs. This technique will allow you to control the texture of the crust.
2. In a small pan, melt the butter over low heat. Make sure you do not let it boil, just until it becomes liquid.
3. Add the cookie crumbs to the melted butter and mix well until every crumb is evenly coated. If the mixture seems too dry, feel free to add a little more butter.
4. Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Pour the cookie mixture into the dish and press it down firmly with your hand to form an even layer. Make sure it is compact so it does not crack during baking.

*Step 2: Preparing the cheese cream*

1. In a food processor or blender, place the cottage cheese and blend until it becomes a smooth paste. It is important to choose fresh cottage cheese that does not contain large pieces.
2. Add the sugar, vanilla essence, eggs, sour cream, lemon juice, and milk. Blend everything until you obtain a homogeneous, slightly liquid composition. If the cream seems too thick, you can add a little more milk, but be careful not to make it too runny.
3. Pour the cheese cream over the cookie crust in the baking dish, leveling the surface with a spatula to achieve an even appearance.

*Step 3: Baking the cheesecake*

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the cheesecake for about 50 minutes. It is important to check the consistency: the edges should be golden brown, while the center will be slightly soft.
2. If you notice that the cheesecake is browning too quickly, you can cover the dish with aluminum foil in the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent burning.

*Step 4: Cooling and serving*

1. Once the cheesecake is baked, let it cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. Then, place it in the refrigerator to set for at least 5 hours (ideally overnight).
2. Before serving, decorate the cheesecake with whipped cream and seasonal fresh fruit. This final touch not only adds an attractive appearance but also a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Useful tips and tricks

- You can experiment with different types of cookies for the crust. Cocoa cookies or butter-flavored cookies can add an interesting taste to the cheesecake.
- If you are a fruit lover, you can add a berry sauce or mango puree on top to enhance the flavors.
- Make sure the cottage cheese is well-drained of whey to avoid a too-wet cheesecake.

Nutritional benefits

Romanian cheesecake is a source of protein due to the cottage cheese and eggs, while also providing essential calcium for bone health. However, it is important to consume in moderation, considering the sugar and fat content. A serving can have approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a different texture, but the taste will be different.
- How can I make the cheesecake healthier? You can reduce the amount of sugar or replace part of the sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- What drinks pair well with cheesecake? A sweet white wine or a fruit tea will perfectly complement the dessert.

Romanian cheesecake is not just a dessert, but also a culinary experience that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. With each slice savored, you will discover not only a delicious taste but also a family story, tradition, and passion for cooking. Experiment, enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor every moment of this culinary journey!