Cheesecake with cranberries

Cheese and Cranberry Cake – A Sweet and Tart Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12

Who can resist a fluffy cake with a velvety texture, enriched with fine cheese and tart cranberries? The cheese and cranberry cake is a dessert that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a friend’s get-together, or simply an evening of indulgence, this recipe will not disappoint.

The history of cheesecake is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary traditions throughout the centuries. These delights have captured the attention of dessert lovers worldwide, with each culture contributing local ingredients and unique techniques. Cranberries, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits, transform this cake into a true treat.

Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients:

- 4 large eggs
- 500 g sugar
- 175 ml vegetable oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- 175 ml milk
- 700 g sweet cheese (preferably well-drained cottage cheese)
- 400 g sour cream (with a fat content of at least 20%)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 400 g flour (ideally, wheat flour)
- 200 g dried cranberries

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help with better homogenization of the mixture. Start by separating the eggs into two large bowls.

2. Beating the eggs with sugar: In one bowl, add the 4 eggs and 500 g sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the eggs together with the sugar until the mixture becomes a fluffy cream and doubles in volume. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy cake.

3. Adding oil and milk: Continuing to mix, gradually add 175 ml oil and 175 ml milk. Make sure the ingredients are well integrated, but do not over-mix.

4. Mixing cheese, sour cream, and vanilla: In another bowl, combine 700 g sweet cheese, 400 g sour cream, and 2 tablespoons vanilla extract. Use a spatula or whisk to mix well until you achieve a homogeneous and creamy composition.

5. Combining the mixtures: Add the cheese mixture to the bowl with eggs and sugar. Gently mix with up-and-down movements to preserve the air in the mixture.

6. Incorporating the flour: Sift 400 g flour and 2 tablespoons baking powder over the cheese and egg mixture. Gently mix with a spatula until the flour is completely incorporated. Be careful not to over-mix to avoid a dense cake.

7. Adding the cranberries: Finally, incorporate the 200 g dried cranberries. They will add a touch of acidity to the cake and create a delicious combination with the cheese.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 160°C. Line a baking tray measuring 30x40 cm with baking paper or grease it with butter. Pour the mixture into the tray and level the surface with a spatula. Bake the cake for about 90 minutes on low heat, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cooling: Once the cake is baked, turn off the oven and let it cool inside with the door slightly open for about an hour. This method will prevent the cake from cracking suddenly.

10. Serving: After it has completely cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant look and added sweetness. Cut the cake into cubes or slices and serve it with a cup of tea or coffee. It is delicious and can be enjoyed both for breakfast and as a dessert.

Serving suggestions:

- Add a special touch to your cake by sprinkling some roasted nuts or almonds on top before baking. They will add crunch and a unique flavor.

- For a contrast of textures, serve the cake with a dollop of sour cream or a berry sauce.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta, but make sure they are well-drained to avoid a too-wet mixture.

2. What other fruits can I use?
Besides cranberries, you can use blueberries, cherries, or even peach pieces, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it, but I recommend cutting it into portions before freezing.

Nutritional benefits:

This dessert is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients due to its ingredients. Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, while cranberries have antioxidant properties and are rich in vitamins. Additionally, this cake can be a healthier option than many other desserts due to the cheese and sour cream content.

Calories:

A serving of this cake contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sugar and type of cheese used. It’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of your caloric intake.

Possible variations:

- Cheese and cocoa cake: Add 50 g of cocoa to the mixture for a chocolate-flavored cake.

- Cheese and citrus cake: Add lemon or orange zest for a fresher and more aromatic flavor.

Every recipe has a story, and the cheese and cranberry cake is one of those recipes that brings families together. With each slice, you not only enjoy a delicious dessert but also create unforgettable moments with your loved ones. So allow yourself to experiment, create, and enjoy the magic of cooking!

 Ingredients: 4 eggs, 400 g flour, 500 g sugar, 175 ml oil, 175 g milk, 700 g sweet cheese, 400 g sour cream, 2 tablespoons vanilla essence, 2 tablespoons baking powder, 200 g dried cranberries