Strawberry Cheesecake

Strawberry Cheesecake – A Sweet and Creamy Delight

When it comes to desserts, strawberry cheesecake is undoubtedly a favorite for many. This dessert not only looks spectacular but perfectly combines sweet and tangy flavors, offering an explosion of tastes with every bite. Whether it’s a party, an anniversary, or simply a weekend evening, this cheesecake is sure to stand out. Plus, it’s a simple, quick, and flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 3 hours
Total: 3 hours and 45 minutes
Servings: 10

The History of Cheesecake

Cheesecake has a long history, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. It is believed that the cheesecake recipe originated in ancient Greece, being served as a dessert at wedding festivities. Over time, each culture has reinterpreted this recipe, adding local ingredients and techniques until it reached the form we know today.

Ingredients

*For the crust:*
- 300 g Petit Beurre biscuits (or any plain biscuits)
- 150 g unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons milk

*For the filling:*
- 400 g cream cheese (we recommend quark, but you can also use mascarpone or a combination)
- 300 ml liquid cream
- 20 g gelatin
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 1 kg strawberries (a mix with peaches is a delicious variation!)

Step by Step: Making the Cheesecake

Step 1: Preparing the crust
1. Start by putting the biscuits in a plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin until you get a fine crumb. This is a fun activity that can be done with kids!
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the milk and mix well.
3. Pour the butter and milk mixture over the biscuits and mix until all the biscuit crumbs are well soaked.
4. In a springform pan (about 23 cm in diameter), pour the biscuit mixture and press it evenly onto the bottom of the pan using a glass or spatula. It’s important to compact it well to achieve a firm crust.
5. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the crust for 10-15 minutes until golden. Once baked, let it cool completely.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
1. Meanwhile, prepare the strawberries. Wash them well, remove the stems, and slice them. A few whole strawberries will be used for decoration.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese and powdered sugar. Use a mixer to achieve a smooth and creamy mixture.
3. In another small bowl, hydrate the gelatin in a few tablespoons of cold water, then dissolve it in a bain-marie or microwave, being careful not to boil it.
4. Add the dissolved gelatin to the cream cheese mixture and mix well.
5. In another bowl, whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to maintain airiness.

Step 3: Assembling the cheesecake
1. On the bottom of the cooled crust, arrange the strawberry slices evenly for an attractive appearance.
2. Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the strawberries, ensuring it fills all corners of the pan.
3. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 3 hours, or until the filling is completely set.

Step 4: Decorating and serving
1. After the cheesecake has set, remove it from the fridge and carefully remove the sides of the pan.
2. Decorate with whole strawberries and, if desired, you can also add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
3. Cut the cheesecake into slices and serve it with a strawberry or berry sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Practical Tips
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a little vanilla essence to the cream cheese.
- If you enjoy fruit combinations, feel free to experiment with other seasonal fruits like peaches, mangoes, or berries.
- Make sure the cream is well whipped to achieve a light and creamy cheesecake.

Nutritional Benefits
Strawberry cheesecake is not only delicious but also healthier due to the fresh fruits. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a strong immune system and healthy digestion. Additionally, cream cheese provides essential proteins and calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
- Yes, you can experiment with mascarpone, ricotta, or cottage cheese, but the result will vary based on moisture and texture.

2. How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
- Make sure not to overbeat the mixture and add the gelatin correctly. Also, baking at low temperatures and gradual cooling are important.

3. Can the cheesecake be frozen?
- Yes, the cheesecake can be frozen, but it is recommended to decorate it just before serving.

Serving Suggestions
This strawberry cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a glass of sweet wine or a fruit tea. If you want to add a touch of freshness, a mint sauce can be an excellent choice. You can also accompany the cheesecake slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruit sorbet.

This strawberry cheesecake recipe is not just a simple dessert but a culinary experience that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, put on your chef's apron, and let’s enjoy a dessert that blends tradition with innovation! Enjoy!