Simple cheesecake

Simple Pear Jam Cheesecake - A Creamy Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 10

The History of Cheesecake
Cheesecake is a dessert with a fascinating history that dates back to antiquity. Over time, cheesecake recipes have diversified, with each culture contributing its unique touch. Typically, this dessert combines creamy cheese with a crunchy base, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Today, I will present a simple cheesecake recipe with a delicious twist of pear jam that is sure to impress anyone.

Ingredients
- 500 g digestive biscuits
- 250 g butter (melted)
- 200 g pear jam
- 1000 g creamy cottage cheese
- 4 egg yolks
- 100 g vanilla powdered sugar
- 200 ml liquid cream
- Zest of 1 lemon (about 50 g)

Ingredient Tips
- Digestive Biscuits: Choose quality biscuits, as they will influence the texture and taste of the cheesecake base. If you want a healthier option, try whole grain biscuits.
- Cottage Cheese: Opt for creamy cottage cheese, as it will provide a smooth texture and richer flavor. You can also use ricotta or mascarpone cheese if you desire a different flavor.
- Pear Jam: This will add a touch of sweetness and a subtle fruit flavor. If you don’t have pear jam, you can try peach or apricot jam.
- Cream: Use liquid cream with a high-fat content to achieve an airy and creamy texture.

Step by Step for a Perfect Cheesecake

1. Preheat the oven
Start by preheating the oven to 160°C. This is the ideal temperature for baking the cheesecake, ensuring it bakes evenly without cracking.

2. Prepare the base
In a food processor, crush the digestive biscuits until you achieve a fine powder. Add the melted butter and pear jam, mixing well until the mixture is homogeneous. It is essential that the butter is melted so that the biscuits bind together.

3. Assemble the base
Place the biscuit mixture in a heat-resistant mold (approximately 23 cm in diameter) and press it evenly on the bottom of the mold. Use a spoon or the bottom of a glass to achieve a flat surface. Cover the base with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out during baking.

4. Prepare the filling
In a large bowl, add the creamy cottage cheese and mix with a whisk or electric mixer until smooth. Add the egg yolks, vanilla powdered sugar, liquid cream, and lemon zest. Mix everything until you obtain a homogeneous and fluffy mixture. It is important not to overmix, as the air in the mixture will cause the cheesecake to rise too much and crack.

5. Pour the filling
Carefully pour the cheese cream over the biscuit base. Use a spatula to evenly distribute the filling, ensuring it reaches the corners of the mold.

6. Baking
Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. The cheesecake is ready when the edges are firm, and the center is slightly wobbly. It is normal for it to set as it cools.

7. Cooling
After baking, let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 15-20 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This will allow the flavors to intensify and the cheesecake to set.

8. Serving
Before serving, dust the cheesecake with vanilla powdered sugar and, if desired, add a drizzle of cherry syrup or chocolate sauce for an extra flavor boost. This dessert pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fragrant coffee.

Variation Suggestions
- Try adding some chopped nuts to the base for a crunchy taste.
- If you want to experiment with flavors, you can replace the pear jam with raspberry or strawberry jam for a burst of fruit.
- Another delicious option is to add a few drops of vanilla extract to the filling for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
This simple cheesecake is rich in protein due to the cottage cheese and eggs, providing a delicious and satisfying snack. Additionally, the pear jam adds fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. Each serving has approximately 350 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions
- *Can I use lactose-free cottage cheese?*
Yes, you can use lactose-free cottage cheese. The result will be just as delicious!

- *What can I do if the cheesecake cracks?*
To avoid cracking, make sure the cheesecake is not exposed to very high temperatures and do not bake it too long. Additionally, let it cool gradually.

- *How can I store the cheesecake?*
Keep it covered in the refrigerator, where it will last up to 5 days. It’s a perfect dessert to make in advance!

I hope this simple pear jam cheesecake recipe inspires you to create a delicious and memorable dessert. With every bite, you will feel the joy of cooking and enjoying this classic dessert. Don’t forget to share the results with your loved ones!