Strawberry and dark chocolate cheesecake

Strawberry and Dark Chocolate Cheesecake – An Irresistible Delight

If you are looking for a dessert that will amaze your taste buds and add a touch of elegance to your table, the strawberry and dark chocolate cheesecake is the perfect choice. This recipe not only combines the creamy texture of cheese with the sweetness of strawberries and the bitterness of chocolate, but it also offers a culinary experience that will impress any guest. Whether you want a dessert for a special occasion or simply want to treat your family, this cheesecake will surely be a hit.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 150 g biscuits (digestive or any preferred biscuits)
- 150 g nuts (finely ground)
- 150-200 g butter (melted)

For the filling:
- 500 g full-fat cottage cheese (or mascarpone for a creamier texture)
- 550 ml liquid cream (350 ml for filling, 200 ml for decoration)
- 4 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 2 teaspoons powdered sugar (for decoration)
- 1 vial vanilla essence
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 1 dark chocolate (about 100 g)
- 2 tablespoons jam (blackberry or any other preferred jam)
- 400-500 g fresh strawberries

Preparation

1. Preparing the crust:
Start by preheating the oven to 170°C. Grind the biscuits and nuts in a food processor until they become a fine mixture. Add the melted butter and mix well, being careful not to form a dough ball. The mixture should be moist but not overly sticky.

2. Forming the base:
Line a springform pan with baking paper. Place the biscuit mixture in the pan and press it evenly on the bottom. Make sure it is well compacted to create a solid base.

3. Preparing the filling:
In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, 250 ml of the liquid cream, vanilla essence, and lemon zest. Use a mixer to achieve a smooth and creamy mixture, without lumps. This is the secret to a perfect cheesecake!

4. Assembling the cheesecake:
Pour the cheese mixture over the biscuit crust. Now, prepare the chocolate sauce. In a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate together with 100 ml of liquid cream and one tablespoon of sugar, stirring constantly until smooth. When the chocolate is completely melted, carefully pour it over the cheese filling, but not in one spot. Use a teaspoon to create decorative shapes.

5. Baking:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cheesecake for 45-60 minutes, or until the center is no longer liquid. It is essential not to overbake the cheesecake to avoid unsightly cracks.

6. Cooling and decorating:
After baking, let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar, then transfer it to the fridge for a few hours, ideally overnight. Before serving, use a thin-bladed knife to detach the edges of the cheesecake from the pan.

7. Serving:
Spread a thin layer of jam over the entire surface of the cheesecake. Whip the remaining 200 ml of cream with the powdered sugar until you achieve a firm consistency. Use a spoon to decorate the edges of the cheesecake with cream and fill the center with fresh strawberries, leaving a few with stems for a rustic and appealing look.

Serving suggestions and combinations

This cheesecake is served cold and is perfect alongside a glass of white wine or a fruit tea. You can accompany it with some crispy biscuits or vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Possible variations

If you want to try a more exotic version, you can replace the strawberries with mango or peaches. You can also add some pecans or ground almonds to the cheese filling for added texture.

Nutritional benefits

The strawberry and dark chocolate cheesecake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, while strawberries provide a significant amount of antioxidants and vitamin C. Dark chocolate, with its high cocoa content, is known for its cardiovascular benefits and positive effects on mood.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with mascarpone or ricotta, but make sure to account for the variation in consistency.

2. What do I do if the cheesecake cracks?
If the cheesecake cracks during baking, don't worry! You can cover the cracks with cream and fruits to give it an attractive look.

3. How can I store the cheesecake?
The cheesecake stores very well in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual portions to enjoy later.

Conclusion

The strawberry and dark chocolate cheesecake is a recipe that combines refinement with simplicity. Each bite is an explosion of flavors and textures, and the preparation process becomes a pleasure. Try making it at home, and you will find it easier than you thought. It will surely become a favorite among your desserts!