Strawberry Curds Cookie Cake

This delightful dessert combines the tangy freshness of strawberries with the creamy texture of curds, all layered atop a buttery cookie crust. The result is a cake that's not only visually impressive but also rich in flavors. With a preparation process that elevates simple ingredients into a sophisticated treat, this cake is perfect for special occasions or a sweet indulgence at the end of a meal. You’ll love the way each bite harmonizes the creamy cheese with the fruity burst of strawberries. The dessert is chilled rather than baked, making it ideal for warm weather when you crave something refreshing yet satisfying. It requires some patience during the refrigeration stages, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours. This recipe also provides an opportunity to practice essential kitchen techniques, such as blooming gelatin and whipping cream to soft peaks. Adding a touch of artistry, you can decorate the cake with fresh strawberries, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Lastly, the jelly topping not only enhances the visual appeal but also locks in moisture, giving the dessert a luscious finish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 700 g strawberries (200 g for the cream, the rest for decoration)
• 360 g curds
• 300 g sugar
• 200 g sweet cream
• 1 package of cookies (such as Selga)
• 1 package butter

Spices & Additives:

• 30 g gelatin
• 2 packages of strawberry-flavored jelly for cakes

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 300 minutes (including refrigeration)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Gelatin: Start by blooming the gelatin in a small amount of water. Follow the package instructions to ensure it dissolves properly.

2. Make the Cookie Base: Crumble the cookies finely, either by hand or using a food processor. Melt the butter and mix it thoroughly with the cookie crumbs to form a uniform, moist mixture.

3. Set the Cookie Base: Take a cake pan and line it with baking paper. Press the cookie mixture into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator to allow the base to firm up.

4. Prepare the Strawberries: Wash the strawberries for the cream, hull them, and cut into quarters. Toss the pieces with half of the sugar to macerate while you move on to the next steps.

5. Blend the Curds: Pass the curds through a sieve to ensure a smooth texture. Mix them with the remaining sugar to balance the tanginess.

6. Whip the Cream: Pour the sweet cream into a chilled bowl and add sugar. Whip until soft peaks form, ensuring the cream is light and airy.

7. Combine the Cream: Gently fold the macerated strawberries and dissolved gelatin into the whipped cream, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients. This will add both flavor and structure.

8. Create the Cheese Layer: Combine the curds and cream mixture using a mixer, mixing until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust in the cake pan.

9. Refrigerate: Place the cake in the refrigerator to set for at least 3 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld and the gelatin to work its magic.

10. Decorate with Strawberries: Wash the remaining strawberries, slice them in half, and artistically arrange them on top of the cake.

11. Prepare the Jelly Topping: Follow the instructions on the strawberry-flavored jelly package to create the topping, allowing it to cool slightly.

12. Finish the Cake: Pour the cooled gelatin mixture over the arranged strawberries on the cake. This layer will not only seal the fruits but also add a glossy finish.

13. Final Chill: Return the cake to the refrigerator, preferably overnight, for a full 12 hours to ensure it is completely set.

14. Serve: Carefully release the cake from its pan, slice, and enjoy your beautifully set dessert.

Tips

• Substitutions: If strawberries aren't in season, you can substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries.
• Techniques: Ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved to prevent lumps in the cream.
• Enhancements: For an additional burst of flavor, consider adding a layer of chopped nuts between the cookie base and the cream.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
• Proteins: 6g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbs: 27g

Variations

• For a lower sugar version, use natural sweeteners like agave or honey in place of sugar.
• If you are lactose intolerant, substitute curds with a plant-based alternative like almond cream cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee to balance the sweetness.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for additional richness.
• Serve alongside a fresh salad to create a refreshing contrast.

Best Places

• The Cake Lounge - Known for its exquisite desserts inspired by traditional recipes. Location: 123 Cake St, Paris, France.

• Strawberry Fields Cafe - Offers various strawberry-based treats, including our standout cake. Location: 45 Berry Blvd, Toronto, Canada.

• Curds & Co. - Specializes in cheese desserts with a unique twist. Location: 78 Cream Lane, Melbourne, Australia.

• Sweet Embrace - A cozy spot with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Location: 101 Dessert Way, Seattle, USA.

• Bakery Bliss - Renowned for delicate flavors and stunning presentation. Location: 67 Torte Ave, Vienna, Austria.

• Flavors of the East - Combines traditional Eastern sweets with new experimental flavors. Location: 23 Spice Road, Tokyo, Japan.

• Mediterranean Bites - Infuses Mediterranean ingredients into their dessert menu. Location: 90 Coastal Drive, Athens, Greece.

• Heavenly Delights - Offers a bakery experience like no other with extensive tasting options. Location: 34 Temple St, London, UK.

• The Rustic Oven - Known for its charming atmosphere and classic treats. Location: 12 Hearth St, Dublin, Ireland.

• Sunshine Sweetery - Famous for using homegrown goodness and showcasing vibrant dessert colors. Location: 99 Sunshine Lane, Cape Town, South Africa.