Light and Fresh Cheesecake

This recipe offers a delightful take on a fresh and airy cheesecake that bursts with citrusy flavor and creamy goodness. With a crumbly cookie base, rich cream liqueur, and a touch of sweetened condensed milk, this dessert combines traditional cheesecake elements with a refreshing twist. The addition of lemon juice and zest enhances its lightness, while a topping of mixed berries provides a burst of color and flavor. It's an easy yet impressive dessert that takes just 30 minutes to prepare, perfect for any gathering or as a delightful treat for the family. Versatile and adaptable, it can be customized with your choice of berries or other toppings. Whether you prefer blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries, this cheesecake will be a standout centerpiece for your dessert table. Its balance of creaminess, sweetness, and acidity makes it a perfect palate cleanser after a rich meal. It's a no-bake recipe, making it an ideal option for warmer months when you want a cool and satisfying sweet treat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

350 g of "Selgas" cookies
1 packet of butter
Cream liqueur
2 packets of fresh cheese
Juice and a bit of zest from 2 lemons
1/2 can of sweetened condensed milk
200 g of heavy cream
Gel sugar
Various berries
Gelatin

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Base: Crush the cookies finely, then mix them with melted butter and a splash of cream liqueur. Adjust the amount of liqueur to your taste but ensure the mixture remains firm and easy to shape. Press this mixture into a mold, creating slight edges, and refrigerate to set.
Mix the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine fresh cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice. Grate in a little lemon zest for extra flavor. Use a mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with gel sugar until stiff peaks form. Only use around 80-90 grams of sugar so the mixture remains balanced and not overly sweet.
Combine Components: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cheese mixture until evenly combined. Pour this creamy layer over the prepared cookie base in the mold.
Add Berries: Choose your favorite berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries. You can use fresh or frozen berries depending on availability. Scatter them generously over the cheesecake.
Prepare the Gelatin Topping: Bloom and melt approximately one tablespoon of gelatin. Mix with some berry juice, then drizzle this over the berries to set the top layer. This gives a beautiful glaze and secures the berries in place.
Chill and Serve: Allow the cheesecake to chill in the fridge until firm. It's best served with a sauce made from blended strawberries for an extra punch of flavor.
Enjoy: Slice and serve cold. The balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors is sure to delight!

Tips

Substitutions: If "Selgas" cookies are unavailable, substitute with any similar tea cookies or graham crackers.
Sweetness Control: Adjust the amount of condensed milk and gel sugar to suit your sweetness preference.
Gelatin Mixer: Ensure gelatin is fully dissolved in juice for a smooth finish.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 6 g
Fats: 30 g
Carbs: 40 g

Variations

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative for a plant-based version.
Flavor Twist: Add a touch of vanilla extract or a different citrus zest for variety.
Tropical Twist: Replace berries with tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for a summery feel.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings: Serve with a glass of lemon-infused iced tea or a light sparkling wine.
Garnishes: Top with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.

Best Places

Ladurée - Known for their exquisite pastries and beautiful interiors. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
Dominique Ansel Bakery - Home of inventive desserts, including the famous Cronut. Location: 189 Spring Street, New York City, USA.
Café Sacher - Famous for their Viennese cakes and cozy atmosphere. Location: Philharmonikerstrasse 4, Vienna, Austria.
Tartine Bakery - Artisan bread and a variety of flavorful pastries. Location: 600 Guerrero Street, San Francisco, USA.
Peggy Porschen Cakes - Known for stunning cakes and beautiful pink storefront. Location: 116 Ebury Street, London, UK.
Café Central - Offers a classic Viennese café experience with scrumptious sweets. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Milk Bar - Creative and quirky dessert concepts. Location: 251 E 13th Street, New York City, USA.
The Cheesecake Factory - Offers an expansive menu of cheesecakes and other delights. Location: 101 S Magnolia Avenue, Orlando, USA.
Sugamo Shokudo Patisserie - A favorite spot for cheesecake lovers in Japan. Location: 2-2-3 Sugamo, Toshima City, Tokyo, Japan.
CAFÉ GERBEAUD - Known for rich coffee and delicious pastries in a historic setting. Location: Vörösmarty tér 7-8, Budapest, Hungary.