Delicious Ricotta Cheese Cake Delight

This delightful cheese cake recipe is a treat for any occasion, offering a balanced blend of rich flavors and creamy textures. The base is made from crushed "Selgas" biscuits and melted butter that creates a sturdy yet crumbly crust. Ricotta cheese plays the starring role, lending its creamy texture and mild taste which is enhanced with a touch of vanilla and a hint of lemon for a refreshing tang. The addition of rich sour cream makes the cheese mixture ultra-smooth and decadent. Instead of the usual sugar, the cake is topped with melted caramel "Gotiņa" candies, which bring a unique sweetness to the dish. Complemented with juicy pineapple pieces, this cake not only impresses with its taste but also with its lovely presentation. Baking at the right temperature ensures it sets perfectly, maintaining a smooth, creamy interior. Whether you're preparing for a family gathering or a dinner party, this cheese cake promises to be a hit. Serve chilled for the best experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 packs of "Selgas" biscuits
500g Ricotta cheese
3 eggs

Extras

175g butter
Rich sour cream (the fatter, the better)
1 lemon
Vanilla essence (or extract)
Sugar
10 "Gotiņa" candies
Pineapple pieces

Preparation Time

Total time: 120 minutes (includes preparation and baking time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixture consistency.
Crush the biscuits: Place both packs of "Selgas" biscuits in a food processor and crush them until they resemble fine breadcrumbs.
Combine with butter: Melt the butter and mix it thoroughly with the crushed biscuits until well combined.
Form the base: Press the mixture firmly and evenly into a baking dish. A thin layer on the sides of the dish can also be created if you prefer.
Blend the cheese and eggs: In a large bowl, gradually blend together the Ricotta cheese with the eggs until well mixed.
Add lemon and sugar: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the mixture, then add sugar to taste.
Incorporate vanilla: Add a few drops of vanilla essence to the mixture and blend until smooth.
Stir in sour cream: Gently fold in 3 tablespoons of sour cream to achieve a creamy consistency.
Pour the mixture: Carefully pour the cheese mixture over the biscuit base in the baking dish.
Bake the cake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake the cake for about 55 minutes until set.
Cool down: Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish before decorating.
Melt the candies: Gently melt the "Gotiņa" candies, ensuring not to burn them.
Decorate: Pour the melted candies over the top of the cooled cake, allowing it to drip slightly over the edges.
Add pineapple: Arrange pineapple pieces on top for a final touch of color and flavor.
Chill the cake: Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least an hour to enhance its flavors.
Serve: Slice and serve chilled for the best texture and taste experience.

Tips

**Use high-quality** Ricotta cheese for the best texture and taste.
**Adjust the sweetness** by varying the amount of sugar added based on personal preference.
**For a more zesty flavor**, add extra lemon zest to the cheese mixture.
**Alternative toppings** like fresh berries can be used instead of pineapple and "Gotiņa" candies.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 350 per slice (assuming 8 slices per cake)
Protein: 10g
Fats: 22g
Carbohydrates: 29g

Variations

Use graham crackers as a substitute for "Selgas" biscuits for a different crust flavor.
Replace Ricotta with cream cheese for a denser texture.
Add a layer of fruit puree for a fruity twist to the traditional recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a light, fruity tea.
A fresh fruit salad can be a refreshing accompaniment.

Best Places

The Cheesecake Factory - Renowned for its extensive variety of unique and delicious cheesecakes. Location: Beverly Hills, California, USA.
La Viña - Famous for its burnt Basque cheesecake with a creamy, gooey center. Location: San Sebastián, Spain.
Ladurée - Known for its elegant desserts and delightful cheesecakes. Location: Paris, France.
Fenocchio - Offers a unique blend of flavors in each bite of their cheesecake. Location: Nice, France.
Eggs 'n Things - A popular spot for a delicious breakfast cheese cake. Location: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA.
Patisserie Valerie - A blend of traditional and contemporary flavors presented in their cheesecakes. Location: London, England.
Tarta de Queso - Specializes in creamy cheese pastries and cakes. Location: Madrid, Spain.
Baked - Celebrated for its American-style cheesecakes. Location: Brooklyn, New York, USA.
La Prova - Known for using fresh local ingredients for their delightful cakes. Location: Rome, Italy.
Café Landtmann - Offers a classic and sophisticated Viennese cheesecake experience. Location: Vienna, Austria.