Name: Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 500 g fresh strawberries; 2 tablespoons corn flour; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 300 g biscuits (any biscuits work, I used digestives); 150 g unsalted butter (melted); 600 g full fat cream cheese; 100 g granulated sugar; 50 g corn flour; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 120 g white chocolate (melted); 400 ml double cream; 150 g icing sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; freeze dried strawberry pieces (to decorate (optional))

Introduction to Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake

When it comes to dessert, you might not think much about the process behind creating a stunning Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake. But let me tell you, there's something truly special about making cheesecake from scratch. Homemade cheesecake not only allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a richer flavor and creamier texture, but it also transforms an ordinary gathering into an impressive occasion. Who wouldn’t love to dig into a creamy slice of cheesecake topped with luscious strawberry puree?

You might wonder, why fuss with homemade when stores offer options? Well, research from the National Dairy Council shows that homemade desserts often surpass their store-bought counterparts in taste and satisfaction. Plus, it’s about the experience—mixing ingredients, whisking until smooth, and the sweet anticipation while it bakes.

Creating your own Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake is also a delightful way to customize flavors to your liking. Want it a little more tart? Adjust the strawberries! Prefer a richer texture? Play with cream cheese ratios. This is your moment to shine, and trust me, the pride in serving a dessert you made yourself is unbeatable. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful treat!

Ingredients for Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake

Creating a delightful Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake begins with the finest ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

Fresh strawberries for the puree

500 g fresh strawberries: Opt for ripe, juicy strawberries as they provide the best flavor for your puree.
2 tablespoons corn flour: This helps to thicken your puree, giving it a luscious texture.
2 tablespoons water: To blend seamlessly with the strawberries.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Just a touch of sweetness to enhance the natural sugars in the strawberries.

Biscuit base essentials

300 g biscuits: Digestive biscuits work beautifully, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
150 g unsalted butter, melted: This binds the crushed biscuits together, creating a crunchy base.

Creamy cheesecake ingredients

600 g full fat cream cheese: For a rich and creamy filling, go for the full-fat version.
100 g granulated sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
50 g corn flour: Keeps the texture smooth and helps with structure.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a beautiful aroma and flavor.
120 g white chocolate, melted: This elevates your cheesecake to a whole new level of indulgence.

Whipped cream toppings

400 ml double cream: For a luscious topping that’s crucial to the cheesecake experience.
150 g icing sugar: This gives your whipped cream that perfect sweet touch.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Because who doesn’t love the taste of vanilla?

With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a show-stopping Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake! For tips on selecting the freshest strawberries, check out this guide from BBC Good Food.

Step-by-step preparation of Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake

Day 1: Preparing the cheesecake

Creating your Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake begins with some delightful preparations. Start by preheating your oven to 170°C. While it's heating up, grease and line an 8-inch springform cake tin, then cover the outside with tin foil a few times—this ensures a perfectly baked cheesecake.

Strawberry Puree
First, let's whip up that luscious strawberry puree! Toss 500 grams of fresh strawberries into a food processor and blend until smooth. For a refined texture, sieve the mixture to remove seeds before transferring it into a pot. Mix 2 tablespoons of corn flour with 2 tablespoons of water; add this to the pot alongside 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir while heating on medium, watching as it thickens into a heavenly puree. Set it aside to cool in the fridge.

Biscuit Base
Now, it’s time for the biscuit base. Crush 300 grams of your favorite biscuits—digestive biscuits work great—using a food processor or a rolling pin in a bag. Combine the crushed biscuits with 150 grams of melted unsalted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the base of your tin for an even layer.

Cheesecake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 600 grams of full-fat cream cheese, 100 grams of granulated sugar, 50 grams of corn flour, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Blend until smooth, then fold in your strawberry puree (which should be cool enough now) and 120 grams of melted white chocolate until combined. Pour this luscious batter over your biscuit base.

Baking
For a tender cheesecake, we’ll use a water bath. Place your cheesecake in a larger roasting tray filled with boiling water halfway up the sides of the tin. Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Once done, turn off the oven and crack the door—let it cool inside for an hour. Transfer it to the fridge overnight to set perfectly.

Day 2: Finishing touches

The next day brings the fun of finishing your Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake! Begin by preparing the whipped cream. In a large bowl, combine 400 ml of double cream, 150 grams of icing sugar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk until you achieve soft peaks—this fluffy topping is essential.

Once your whipped cream is ready, carefully remove the cheesecake from the tin. Spread the whipped cream over the top, creating an inviting layer. For an extra touch, sprinkle some freeze-dried strawberry pieces on top, which not only look beautiful but also add a burst of extra flavor.

And just like that, your Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake is complete! Slice it up, serve it to friends, or just indulge by yourself—after all, you’ve earned it! Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation, and remember to share your experience with others or on your social media; after all, good cooking is meant to be celebrated.

Variations on Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake

Berry Mix Cheesecake

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider swapping out strawberries for a medley of berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. This berry mix cheesecake takes the classic strawberry and cream cheesecake to another level with a vibrant array of flavors. Simply replace the strawberry puree with an equal amount of mixed berry puree, which can be made by blending your favorite berries and straining them to remove seeds. This variation not only adds a burst of color but also packs in additional vitamins and antioxidants!

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

For those with a sweet tooth, why not try a chocolate strawberry cheesecake? By folding in some melted dark chocolate into the cheesecake batter, you’ll create a luscious chocolate layer complemented by the fresh strawberry flavor. You can even drizzle some melted chocolate on top before adding the whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch. This combination is sure to impress! For more inspiration, check out this article on combining chocolate and fruit.

These variations are just a few ways to elevate your strawberry and cream cheesecake. Get creative and enjoy experimenting with flavors!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Perfect Cheesecake

Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients

Using room temperature ingredients is essential for your Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake. When cream cheese, eggs, and any dairy are at room temperature, they combine more easily, leading to a creamier texture without lumps. Take your ingredients out of the fridge about an hour before you start to ensure they blend perfectly.

Tips for Avoiding Cracks

To achieve a smooth, crack-free cheesecake, consider these tips:

Water Bath: Always bake your cheesecake in a water bath. This gentle heat helps it cook evenly and prevents cracks.
Do Not Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to rise and crack during baking.
Slow Cooling: After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door slightly ajar for an hour. This gradual cooling helps to minimize cracks by reducing temperature shock.

By keeping these tips in mind, your Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake will be the show-stopper of any dessert table!

Serving suggestions for Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake

Creative plating ideas

Presenting your Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake can elevate your dessert game. Start by slicing the cheesecake into elegant wedges and placing them on a contrasting-colored plate—think white plates for a vibrant cheesecake or a dark plate for a stunning visual effect. Top each slice with a swirl of whipped cream and a drizzle of the strawberry puree for extra flair. Adding fresh strawberries or mint leaves as garnishes not only enhances the look but also offers freshness.

Complementary flavors to serve alongside

Pair your Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake with a side of tart preserves or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for delightful contrast. Serve it with a light, citrusy sorbet or a refreshing berry compote to balance the rich creaminess. Consider a delicate herbal tea or a strong coffee to complement the creamy richness of the cheesecake; they make for a wonderful end to a meal. Explore more pairing ideas at sources like Bon Appétit or Food Network for inspiration!

Time Breakdown for Making Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake

Preparation Time

Getting started with your Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake takes about 30 minutes. You'll be whipping up the strawberry puree, crushing biscuits for the base, and mixing your cheesecake batter. It’s a perfect way to ease into your baking adventure!

Chilling Time

Once your cheesecake is baked, patience becomes key. You'll want to allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy, luscious texture we all crave!

Total Time

In total, you're looking at approximately 8 hours for this delicious dessert, which includes preparation and chilling. It could even be less if you decide to dive into it sooner. Just remember, good things come to those who wait!

For more tips on cheesecake making, consider checking out resources from The Cheesecake Factory or Serious Eats. Your Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake will be worth every second!

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake

Calories

A delightful slice of Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake contains approximately 320 calories. This makes it a decadent yet manageable dessert choice for special occasions or a comforting indulgence.

Sugar Content

With around 20 grams of sugar per slice, this cheesecake beautifully balances sweetness with the tartness of fresh strawberries, creating a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Serving Size

Portions matter! This recipe yields about 10 servings. Feel free to adjust your serving size according to your guests, but remember, sharing is caring when it comes to delicious desserts.

If you want more information on the nutritional aspects of cheesecake and tips for healthier baking options, check out resources from Healthline or NutritionData. Enjoy your baking adventure!

FAQs about Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake

How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Cracked cheesecakes are a common concern! To avoid this, make sure to bake your cheesecake in a water bath. This provides a gentle heat that helps it cook evenly. Also, avoid overmixing to prevent excess air from being incorporated into the batter. Finally, allow your cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar to minimize temperature shock.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

While cream cheese is a key ingredient in Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake, you can use alternatives such as mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option. Keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so choose according to your preference!

Can I make this a no-bake cheesecake?

Absolutely! To create a no-bake version, simply skip the baking steps and add gelatin to the cream cheese filling to help it set. Chill the cheesecake in the fridge for several hours until firm. This way, you can enjoy a creamy, dreamy Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake without turning on the oven!

For more tips, check out resources like BBC Good Food for inspiration and variations.

Conclusion on Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake

In summary, this Strawberry and Cream Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it's a delightful experience that blends rich and refreshing flavors. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, it’s sure to impress. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and savor the lusciousness!