Strawberry cheesecake

Strawberry Cheesecake: A Perfect Delight for Any Occasion

If you're looking for a quick, easy-to-make dessert that is sure to impress, strawberry cheesecake is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the creamy texture of cheese with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, creating a balance of flavors that will delight any palate. Whether you serve this dessert at a party, an anniversary, or simply to treat your family, the strawberry cheesecake recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

For the crust:
- 400 g biscuits (preferably cocoa biscuits for an extra flavor)
- 250 g butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa (optional, for an intense taste)

For the cream:
- 500 g fresh cottage cheese (like ricotta)
- 500 ml liquid cream (ideally well chilled)
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 100 ml cold water (for hydrating the gelatin)
- 100 ml hot milk (not boiling, just warm)
- 20 g gelatin (for a perfect texture)
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar (or a vanilla pod for a natural taste)

For decoration:
- Fresh strawberries (for a colorful and appetizing look)
- Diced apple (for a crunchy note)
- Canned peaches (for a sweet-sour taste)
- Decorative candies (for a fairy-tale finishing touch)

Preparing the cheesecake:

1. Preparing the crust:
Start by breaking the biscuits into small pieces and putting them in a blender. Grind them finely until you achieve a breadcrumb-like texture. Add the melted butter and cocoa, then mix well until the mixture becomes homogeneous and slightly moist. This will form the perfect base for the cheesecake.

2. Press the crust:
In a round springform pan, add the biscuit and butter mixture. Use the bottom of a glass to press the mixture down firmly, ensuring that the crust is even and compact. Leave the pan in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.

3. Preparing the cream:
While the crust is chilling, prepare the cream. In a small bowl, place the gelatin in cold water and let it swell for 8-10 minutes. Meanwhile, in another bowl, blend the cottage cheese until you achieve a smooth paste. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla sugar, mixing further until combined.

4. Add the cream:
Gradually fold in the liquid cream into the cheese mixture, gently mixing with a spatula or mixer until you achieve a fluffy and airy cream.

5. Dissolving the gelatin:
The swollen gelatin is carefully added to the hot milk (not boiling), stirring constantly until completely dissolved. It is important not to put the gelatin directly into boiling milk, as it will lose its properties. Gradually add the dissolved gelatin to the cheese cream and mix well.

6. Assembling the cheesecake:
On the biscuit base, arrange the halved strawberries around the edges. Pour half of the cheese cream over the biscuit base and level it well. Add the diced apple and canned peaches, then pour the rest of the cheese cream. On top, sprinkle some finely chopped strawberries and decorate with strawberry slices shaped like flowers and decorative candies.

7. Chilling the cheesecake:
Put the cheesecake in the fridge for a few hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the gelatin to set.

8. Serving:
When you are ready to serve the cheesecake, carefully detach the edges of the pan. Use a sharp knife, which you can hold in hot water for easier cutting. You can serve the cheesecake alongside a cup of green tea or a glass of white wine for an interesting contrast of flavors.

Practical tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Choose quality biscuits for the crust, as they will influence the final texture and taste of the cheesecake. Cocoa can be omitted if you prefer a plain crust.
- Gelatin: Make sure the gelatin is well dissolved before adding it to the cheese cream. You can use both powdered gelatin and gelatin sheets, being careful to adjust the proportions accordingly.
- Variations: You can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, instead of strawberries. Additionally, you can add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cream for an extra freshness.

Nutritional benefits:

This strawberry cheesecake is not only delicious but can also be a healthier option due to its ingredients. Cottage cheese is a good source of protein, and strawberries provide a significant amount of vitamin C and antioxidants. Although it is a dessert, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use Philadelphia cheese?
Yes, you can use Philadelphia cheese for a creamier texture, but it's best to choose a low-fat version.

2. How can I avoid a too-wet biscuit base?
Make sure the butter is evenly melted and the biscuits are well ground. Also, leave the crust to cool for enough time to firm up.

3. What can I use instead of gelatin?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use agar-agar, but follow specific instructions for using it correctly.

In conclusion, strawberry cheesecake is a versatile dessert that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to make it for a special celebration or simply to treat yourself, it is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe and personalize it to your taste!