Classic Cheese Cake Recipe

This classic cheese cake is a rich and creamy dessert that's perfect for any special occasion or just a cozy night in. The recipe features a delectable combination of mascarpone cheese and a buttery biscuit base, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The tangy hint from citrus zest enhances the creamy filling, while the sweet vanilla notes complement the delicate balance of flavors. Slow baking ensures a smooth and sumptuous texture that holds firm yet feels light and airy. A dusting of citrus zest or a drizzle of fruit puree can elevate the aesthetics and taste even more. Cooling the cake thoroughly allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it best to enjoy the next day. Delight your guests with this luxurious dessert that’s both simple to make and impressive to serve. It’s a timeless treat that brings comfort and joy in every bite. With just a little patience, you can create a cheese cake that rival those found in top patisseries. Enjoy a slice with your favorite cup of coffee or tea for a delightful pairing.

Ingredients

Biscuit Base

• 200 g of cookies
• 100 g of sugar
• 100 g of butter

Filling

• 1 kg of mascarpone cheese
• 200 g of sugar
• 1 orange or lemon
• Orange juice
• Vanilla sugar
• 5 eggs
• 200 ml of heavy cream
• 100 g of flour

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 3 hours

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the base: Crush the cookies finely using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and rolling over with a rolling pin.
2. Mix ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed cookies with sugar and melted butter. Stir well until the mixture is homogenous.
3. Form the crust: Press the cookie mixture evenly into the bottom of a baking pan, ensuring it is compact and flat to form a stable base.
4. Whisk eggs and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
5. Add citrus zest: Grate the zest of an orange (or lemon) into the egg mixture and then squeeze in the juice. Mix thoroughly.
6. Incorporate mascarpone: Gradually blend the mascarpone cheese into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to achieve a smooth consistency.
7. Combine cream and flour: Pour in the heavy cream and sift in the flour, then mix well until fully integrated and smooth.
8. Pour the filling: Carefully pour the creamy mixture over the prepared biscuit base in the pan.
9. Bake the cake: Preheat the oven to 120 degrees Celsius. Bake the cheese cake in the middle rack of the oven for around 3 hours.
10. Check readiness: The cake should be set in the middle and not wobble when gently shaken.
11. Cool the cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
12. Refrigerate for best flavor: For best results, cover the cake and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors develop fully.
13. Serving: Take the cheesecake out of the fridge and garnish with additional citrus zest or fruit slices before serving.
14. Remember patience is key for best results, allowing the cake to set properly enhances taste and texture.

Tips

• Butter melting tip: Use unsalted butter and melt it on low heat to avoid burning.
• Substitution options: Use lemon zest and juice for a different citrus profile. Substitute cream with full-fat Greek yogurt for a tangier taste.
• Baking tip: Ensure your oven is preheated and maintain a low temperature to prevent the cake from cracking.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 450 per slice
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 30g
• Carbs: 35g

Variations

• Use a gluten-free flour alternative for the filling to cater to gluten-sensitive diets.
• Substitute regular sugar with a sweetener of choice for a lower-calorie version.
• Try adding a layer of fresh berries before baking for a fruity twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a berry compote for added sweetness and color.
• Serve alongside a fragrant herbal tea to balance the rich flavors.
• Dust with cocoa powder for a touch of chocolate heaven.

Best Places

1. Chez Janou - A quaint cafe known for its delights in Paris. Location: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, Paris, France.
2. Lady M Confections - A luxurious dessert bar famous for its cakes. Location: 36 W 40th St, New York, USA.
3. Tartinery - Offers a range of exquisite cheesecakes. Location: 1 W 67th St, New York, USA.
4. Pasticceria Marchesi - Renowned for their classic Italian pastries. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11A, Milan, Italy.
5. La Viña - Famous for its creamy Basque cheesecakes. Location: 31 de Agosto Kalea, 3, 20003 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain.
6. Hokkaido Bake Cheese Tart Cafe - Delight in its Japanese-inspired creations. Location: 88 Desker Rd, Singapore.
7. Cheese Cake House - Known for innovating classic recipes. Location: 123-456 Suhro-dong, Seoul, South Korea.
8. Betty's Cafe Tea Rooms - Tradition meets taste in this historic cafe. Location: 6-8 St Helen's Square, York, UK.
9. Antico Caffe Greco - A historical landmark offering Italian bakes. Location: Via dei Condotti, 86, Rome, Italy.
10. Belga Queen - Where artistry in dessert meets Belgian pride. Location: Rue Fossé aux Loups 32, Brussels, Belgium.

Delight in creating this classic cheese cake that is not only a pleasure to eat but a joy to prepare. Enjoy every creamy bite and impress family and friends with your baking prowess!