Strawberry Cheesecake in 3 Simple Steps

Strawberry Cheesecake in 3 Simple Steps - A Sweet Indulgence

In search of a quick and delicious dessert, strawberry cheesecake proves to be the perfect option. This simple yet refined recipe combines the creamy texture of cheese with the sweetness of strawberries, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite. Plus, it's a no-bake dessert, making it ideal for warm days or moments when you want to impress without too much effort.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 8 hours (ideally overnight)
Servings: 8-10

Your ingredients for a perfect cheesecake:
- 600 g cream cheese (we recommend Philadelphia for a smooth texture)
- 284 g heavy cream
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 250 g digestive biscuits
- 100 g butter
- 1 vanilla pod or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 6-7 fresh strawberries (depending on their size, enough to completely cover the cheesecake)

A bit of history:
Cheesecake has a long history, being appreciated since ancient times. It is believed to have been served in ancient Greece, where it was used as an energizing dessert for athletes. Over the centuries, recipes have evolved, and today there are numerous variations, each with its own charm. Strawberry cheesecake adds a touch of freshness and a pleasant contrast between the rich cream and the aromatic fruits.

Step 1: Preparing the Crust
Start by crushing the biscuits:
- Place the biscuits in a sturdy plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them until you get fine crumbs. This will be the base of your cheesecake, so make sure they are well crushed.
- Melt the butter in the microwave for about 40 seconds, then let it cool slightly. This will help bind the crust.
- Mix the crushed biscuits with the melted butter until they are completely soaked. Place the mixture in a round springform pan (23 cm) and press firmly with a spoon until you have an even layer. This step is essential for having a well-defined crust.
- Put the pan in the fridge while you prepare the cream.

Step 2: Preparing the Cream
Now it's time to make the cream:
- In a large bowl, add the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and the seeds from the vanilla pod (or vanilla extract). Mix for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add the heavy cream and continue mixing until you achieve a uniform mixture. It is important not to overmix to prevent the mixture from curdling.
- Pour the cream cheese over the biscuit base and level it with a spatula. Here you can also add a bit of lemon or orange flavor for an extra touch of freshness.

Step 3: Decorating with Strawberries
The last step, but not the least:
- Slice the strawberries thinly and arrange them evenly on top of the cheesecake. We recommend using fresh strawberries, but you can also experiment with other seasonal fruits such as raspberries or blueberries.
- For a shiny appearance, you can cover the strawberries with a little strawberry jelly prepared according to the package instructions. This will also add an extra delicious taste.
- Place the cheesecake in the fridge for at least 8 hours, ideally overnight, to set and absorb the flavors.

Serving and Personal Suggestions:
To remove the cake from the pan:
- Place the base of the pan over a tall can and gently press on its side until the cheesecake slides completely out of the pan. This method simplifies the process and will keep your cake intact.
- You can serve the cheesecake with a berry sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add an extra indulgence. Additionally, a glass of prosecco or a cold lemonade pairs wonderfully with this dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese for this cheesecake?
- Although cream cheese is the most suitable, you can experiment with cottage cheese or mascarpone, but you may achieve a different texture.

2. How can I store the cheesecake?
- The cheesecake keeps well in the fridge, covered, for 3-5 days. Don't forget to protect it from odors in the fridge!

3. What other fruits can I use?
- Instead of strawberries, you can use peaches, mango, or even berries, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional Benefits:
Strawberry cheesecake is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a healthy immune system. Cream cheese provides protein, while digestive biscuits can give you energy.

Calories per serving: approximately 350-450 (depending on serving size and ingredients used)

I encourage you to try this strawberry cheesecake recipe, play with the ingredients, and add your own variations. Whether it's for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this dessert will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!