Lemon Cheese Cake with Chocolate Base

This delightful Lemon Cheese Cake with Chocolate Base is a perfect fusion of tangy lemon and rich chocolate. The base is a delectable blend of cocoa and almonds, providing a subtle crunch and deep chocolate undertone. The creamy filling, featuring mascarpone cheese and a hint of citrus, is smooth and luscious, complementing the chocolate base brilliantly. Ideal for special gatherings, this dessert not only pleases the palate but also makes an impressive visual appeal. The preparation is straightforward, yet it rewards with a sophisticated taste profile. A hint of lemon zest within the filling provides a refreshing twist, making it light yet indulgent. Topped with a sprinkle of grated chocolate, every bite is a delightful harmony of flavors. This cake is suited for various events or simply for those days when you feel like treating yourself. Enjoy its elegant simplicity paired with a fresh cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 egg
• 50 g sugar
• 70 g butter
• 30 g ground almonds
• 100-150 g flour
• 20 g cocoa

For the Filling

• 4 eggs + 1 egg yolk
• 150 g sugar
• 500 g mascarpone cheese or 150 g heavy cream
• 2 lemons

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 120 minutes
Preparation: 30 minutes
Cooking: 90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Base:
   Begin by whisking together the egg and sugar until well combined. Melt the butter and let it cool slightly before adding it to the egg mixture.

2. Add Flavors:
   Stir in the ground almonds and cocoa, blend until smooth.

3. Mix the Dough:
   Gradually add in the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead gently to ensure all ingredients are combined.

4. Form the Base:
   Press the dough evenly into a 24-26 cm baking form. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the base firm up.

5. Preheat and Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C. After chilling, bake the base for 15-20 minutes until slightly firm.

6. Prepare the Filling:
   Zest the lemons and squeeze out the juice. In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, egg yolk, and sugar until light and fluffy.

7. Add Cheese and Lemon:
   Gradually incorporate the mascarpone cheese or heavy cream into the egg mixture, ensuring a smooth blend.

8. Finish the Filling:
   Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring until fully mixed.

9. Assemble and Bake:
   Pour the lemon-cheese filling over the pre-baked base. Bake in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 45 minutes.

10. Cool and Decorate:
    Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the form. Decorate with grated chocolate or chocolate shavings for a complete finish.

Tips

• Substitution: If mascarpone is not available, use cream cheese for a similar texture.
• Chill Dough: Chilling the dough ensures a crispier texture once baked.
• Zesting Lemons: Use a microplane for the best zest consistency. Avoid the bitter white pith.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 10 g
• Fats: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free mix.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and substitute butter with margarine.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect when served chilled with a side of whipped cream.
• Pair it with light, fruity tea or freshly brewed coffee for a refreshing after-meal treat.

Best Places

1. Magnolia Bakery - Famous for its delicious cakes and friendly ambiance.
   Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, USA.

2. Café de Flore - A Parisian classic offering an unforgettable menu.
   Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.

3. Tartine Bakery - Known for its innovative pastry creations.
   Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.

4. Caffè Florian - Venice's historical café with exquisite desserts.
   Location: Piazza San Marco, 57, Venice, Italy.

5. Peggy Porschen - Offers beautifully crafted cakes in a stylish setting.
   Location: 116 Ebury St, London, UK.

6. Pasticceria Marchesi - Renowned for timeless pastries and cakes.
   Location: Via Montenapoleone, 9, Milan, Italy.

7. Konditorei Demel - A traditional Viennese café with an opulent dessert selection.
   Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.

8. El Nacional - A unique dining space offering a variety of Spanish sweets.
   Location: Passeig de Gràcia, 24 Bis, Barcelona, Spain.

9. Confeitaria Colombo - A historic café with a vintage charm and rich offerings.
   Location: R. Gonçalves Dias, 32 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

10. Bourke Street Bakery - Known for delectable handmade delicacies.
    Location: 633 Bourke St, Surry Hills, Sydney, Australia.