Delicious Cream Cheese Cake Delight

This delectable cream cheese cake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. It features a crumbly base made from crushed crackers and nuts, topped with a creamy mixture of cream and dairy products. With a hint of vanilla and spices, this dessert is both rich and aromatic. The cake's preparation requires some time and patience, as the flavors meld together beautifully during the cooling process. It is best served chilled, offering a refreshing contrast to its dense, creamy texture. While it takes a bit of time to prepare, the end result is a sumptuous dessert that can be garnished with fresh fruits or a drizzle of caramel. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine. Whether for a family gathering or a special celebration, this cake is sure to impress your guests. Its rich flavors and smooth texture make it an irresistible indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Base:

170 g crushed TUC crackers
140 g melted butter
60 g chopped walnuts
80 g brown sugar
15 g cinnamon
4 g ground nutmeg

For the Topping:

670 g cream cheese (Philadelphia, Mascarpone, or Kāruma)
235 g heavy cream
230 g sour cream
200 g sugar
230 g flour
3 eggs
Vanilla extract or vanilla sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 420 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 175 degrees Celsius.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crushed crackers, walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter.
Press the mixture firmly into a baking pan to create a solid cake base.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese with the sugar until smooth.
Gradually add both the sour cream and the heavy cream into the cheese mixture.
Stir in the flour and vanilla, ensuring the mixture is creamy and well-blended.
Slowly add the eggs into the mixture. Whisk them separately first, then fold them in to maintain the airiness.
Pour the cheese mixture over the prepared base, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the oven for 60 to 70 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Allow the cake to cool to room temperature for a couple of hours.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to enhance the flavors.
Once thoroughly chilled, gently remove it from the baking pan to serve.
Slice and serve, perhaps garnished with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips

Substitute with gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free base.
For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts.
Allow the cake to set in the fridge overnight for best results.
When mixing the eggs, do it slowly to maintain the cake's creamy texture.

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 7g
Fat: 30g
Carbs: 38g

Variations

Use different spices such as cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
Experiment with a variety of nuts, such as pecans or almonds.
For a citrusy note, add a zest of lemon or orange to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a cup of espresso for a delightful afternoon treat.
Top with a warm berry compote or a drizzle of honey.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Best Places

Cheesecake Factory - Known for its vast variety of cheesecakes and desserts. Location: 2021 Tyler St, Hollywood, USA.
Lady M Confections - Renowned for delicate, layered mille crepe cakes. Location: 36 W 40th St, New York, USA.
Uncle Tetsu's - Famous for its light and fluffy Japanese cheesecakes. Location: 598 Bay St, Toronto, Canada.
Anna's Cheesecake Cafe - Offers handmade cheesecakes and coffee. Location: 21 Rue Saint-Antoine, Paris, France.
La Vina - Popular for its burnt Basque-style cheesecake. Location: 31 de Agosto Kalea, San Sebastian, Spain.
The Cheesecake Room - A charming spot with a variety of cheesecake flavors. Location: 34 Darling St, Sydney, Australia.
Cafe Landtmann - Offers a classic Viennese cheesecake experience. Location: Universitätsring 4, Vienna, Austria.
Beard Papa's - Known for its cream puffs and unique cheesecake flavors. Location: 8-44-8 Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan.
Two Little Red Hens - A beloved bakery for creamy and dense cheesecakes. Location: 1652 2nd Ave, New York, USA.
Hokkaido Cheese Tart - Specializes in cheese tarts that are a fresh take on classic flavors. Location: 14 Scotts Rd, Singapore, Singapore.