Cherry Curd and Yogurt Cake Delight

This divine dessert brings together the rich flavors of yogurt and curd cheese with the tartness of cherries to create a sumptuous treat. The base of the cake is made from crushed cookies, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy layers above. Perfect for gatherings and special occasions, this cake is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Creating this dessert involves simple steps, yet the end result is an intricate mosaic of flavors and textures. The smooth yogurt and curd mixture fills the air with a sweet aroma as it sets atop a buttery cookie crust. Vibrant cherries sitting atop the cake add a splash of color and a burst of freshness, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. With each bite, you'll experience the harmonious blend of silky yogurt, soft curd, and luscious cherries, all held together by a subtle vanilla warmth. This dessert not only looks stunning but also tantalizes the taste buds with its perfect balance of sweet and tangy. It's a delightful way to end a meal, leaving your guests impressed and delighted. Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become a beloved addition to your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200g cookies (such as "Selga")
• 150g butter
• 340g curd cheese
• 180g yogurt
• 120g sweet cream (10%)
• 20g gelatin
• 90g sugar
• Cake jelly
• Canned cherries
• Vanilla sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 180 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Base: Crush the cookies into fine crumbs, then mix them with melted butter until combined. Line a baking pan with parchment paper, and press the cookie mixture evenly onto the base. Refrigerate for 40 minutes to allow it to set.

2. Prepare the Gelatin Mixture: In a bowl, combine the sweet cream with gelatin and set aside for 20-30 minutes to let it bloom. Once bloomed, melt the gelatin mixture by placing it in a hot water bath, stirring consistently. Ensure it doesn’t overheat, and set it aside to cool.

3. Blend Yogurt and Curd: In another bowl, mix together the curd cheese, yogurt, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Use a hand blender or mixer to blend until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.

4. Combine Gelatin and Curd Mixture: Once the gelatin mixture is cool, add it to the curd and yogurt mixture, blending thoroughly. Stir ten times in each direction to ensure even distribution of the gelatin.

5. Assemble the Cake: Pour the prepared curd mixture over the cookie base in the baking pan. Smooth the top if necessary, and refrigerate for about 2 hours to set.

6. Prepare the Cherry Topping: Drain the canned cherries, reserving the juice. Halve the cherries and arrange them neatly over the set cake.

7. Make the Jelly Topping: Using the reserved cherry juice, prepare the jelly according to the package instructions of the cake jelly (Tortenguss), adding water as needed.

8. Apply the Jelly: Once the jelly is ready and slightly cooled, pour it evenly over the cherries on the cake. Refrigerate the cake for another 30 minutes to set the jelly.

9. Serve and Enjoy: Once set, slice and serve the cake chilled, enjoying the blend of textures and flavors.

Tips

• For a Nutty Twist: Add a handful of crushed walnuts or almonds to the cookie base.
• Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the curd mixture for a fresh, zesty flavor.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Consider using honey or maple syrup in place of sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 250 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cookies for the base.
• Vegan: Substitute curd cheese, yogurt, cream, and gelatin with vegan alternatives.
• Berries Mix: Replace cherries with a mix of berries for a colorful variation.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the cake with a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a glass of semi-sweet wine.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Best Places

1. Choco Café - Renowned for its decadent chocolate desserts and cozy ambiance.
   Location: Betlémské nám. 248/8, Prague, Czech Republic.

2. Café Pouchkine - Elegant setting with a variety of exquisite pastries.
   Location: 16 Pl. de la Madeleine, Paris, France.

3. The Bulgarian - A charming café offering traditional and contemporary Bulgarian treats.
   Location: Georgi S. Rakovski Str. 145, Sofia, Bulgaria.

4. Konditorei Zauner - Known for classic Austrian pastries and a rich culinary history.
   Location: Pfarrgasse 7, Bad Ischl, Austria.

5. Bakary Cafe - A cozy spot with a wide array of baked goods and delightful cakes.
   Location: Jalan Pondok Kemuning Raya Blok G6 No.1, Tangerang, Indonesia.

6. Pastisseria Escribà - Combining art with cake making, offering stunning treats.
   Location: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 546, Barcelona, Spain.

7. Cafe Sababa - A unique cafe blending middle-eastern flavors and European pastries.
   Location: Zygmuntowska 14, Kraków, Poland.

8. Cakewalkers - Specializes in exquisite cakes and pastries with global inspirations.
   Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, UAE.

9. The Pastry House - A lovely spot for superior cake creations and lovely vibe.
   Location: Via dei Pettinari, 81, Rome, Italy.

10. La Parfait - Famous for its French pastries and distinctive desserts.
    Location: 349 Spadina Ave, Toronto, Canada.