Simple cake from grandma

Grandma's simple cake

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 slices

Who doesn't remember the delicious flavor of fresh-from-the-oven cheesecake, embracing you with childhood memories? This simple cheesecake recipe, handed down from grandma, is perfect for those times when you need something quick but tasty to sweeten your day. Whether you serve it as a dessert at a family meal or as a delicious snack between meals, this cheesecake is a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients needed:
- 100 g butter (room temperature)
- 120 g powdered sugar
- 3 large eggs (preferably fresh)
- 250 g flour
- 1 sachet baking powder (approx. 10 g)
- 2 teaspoons cocoa (optional)
- Grated zest of 1 lemon (for a fresh taste)
- 1 teaspoon almond essence

Ingredient details:
- Butter: Make sure it's room temperature to more easily incorporate with the sugar. You can use unsalted butter for a smoother flavor.
- Powdered sugar: This dissolves quickly into the batter, providing a smooth texture and celebrating the sweetness of the cheesecake.
- Eggs: It's important to keep them at room temperature for an airy, fluffy cheesecake.
- Flour: Choose a good quality flour for best results.
- Cocoa: Adds a touch of intensity and a nice color contrast.
- Lemon zest: Enriches the flavor and adds freshness.
- Almond essence: Adds flavor, but you can also experiment with other essences such as vanilla.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Make the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cut the butter into small pieces and add the powdered sugar. Mix well with a mixer until creamy and smooth. This step is essential to ensure a fluffy texture.

2. Adding the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each one. It is important that the eggs are fully incorporated to avoid lumps.

3. Incorporating flavors: Add the grated lemon zest and almond essence. Mix to distribute the flavors evenly in the batter.

4. Mixing dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine flour and baking powder. This will give the cake an airy texture. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon, until the ingredients are well integrated.

5. Adjust consistency: If the dough is too swirled, feel free to add a small cup of mineral water, stirring until you get the desired consistency. The dough should be soft but not too runny.

6. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. In one, add the cocoa and mix well until fully incorporated.

7. Prepare the tray: Preheat the oven to 185 degrees Celsius. In a baking tray, place baking paper and brush lightly with a little oil to prevent sticking.

8. Pouring the batter into the pan: Pour the almond essence batter into the pan. Use a spatula to level it. Then carefully add the cocoa batter in the middle. This step will create a beautiful marbled effect.

9. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check it's done by testing it with a toothpick: it should come out clean.

10. Cooling: Once the cheesecake is baked, leave it to cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes, then remove it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to avoid a wet texture.

11. Slicing and serving: Once cooled, cut the cheese into generous slices. Serve plain or with a dollop of fruit jam, a scoop of ice cream or chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast.

Practical tips:
- You can add nuts or chopped hazelnuts to the batter for extra texture.
- If you want a moister cheesecake, you can replace some of the butter with yogurt.
- Instead of cocoa, experiment with chocolate chips or pieces of candied fruit for a fruitier version.

Nutritional benefits:
This simple sponge cake is a good source of energy thanks to the carbohydrates in the flour and sugar. Butter provides healthy fats and eggs are an excellent source of protein. Lemon zest adds antioxidants and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the cake will have a denser texture.
- What can I do if I don't have butter? You can use coconut oil or margarine, but the taste will vary.
- Can I freeze it? Yes, this cheesecake keeps well in the freezer wrapped in cling film.

Serving recommendations:
This cheddar pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also try serving it with a glass of warm milk or cold lemonade, depending on your preference.

So, get ready to enjoy this simple granny's cheesecake that will not only sweeten your day, but also bring you closer to fond memories. Enjoy!