Cheese cake, Ioana's recipe

Cheesecake, Ioana's recipe – a classic delight with a personal twist

This is a cake that combines a fluffy base with a rich cheese cream, perfect for any occasion or simply to treat yourself after a long day. This cheesecake recipe is adapted from a popular recipe but with some modifications that give it a special touch. The preparation time is about 25-30 minutes, and baking will take between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the oven. The final result will be a delicious cake that can be cut into about 12 servings.

Necessary ingredients

*For the base:*
- 500 g flour
- 1 packet of baking powder extinguished with lemon juice
- 150 g butter (or margarine)
- 150 g sugar
- 1 vial of vanilla essence
- 2 eggs

*For the cream:*
- 750-850 g cottage cheese (preferably fresh and well-drained)
- 150 g sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 3 heaping tablespoons of sour cream
- 2-3 tablespoons semolina
- Additionally, 2-3 tablespoons sugar for the beaten egg whites

Preparation time:
- Preparation: 25-30 minutes
- Baking: 60-90 minutes
- Total time: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Number of servings: 12

Step by step: Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the base:
Start by mixing all the ingredients for the base in a large bowl. Add the flour, the baking powder extinguished with lemon juice, sugar, soft butter, vanilla essence, and eggs. Use a spatula or mixer to obtain a homogeneous dough.

2. Forming the base:
Choose a baking dish or a smaller dish than the standard oven tray. Grease the dish with a little butter or margarine to prevent sticking. Spread about three-quarters of the dough, forming a border of about 3 cm all around. If the dough sticks to your hands, moisten your palms with a little water to facilitate shaping. After you have spread the dough, refrigerate the dish for 15-20 minutes.

3. Preparing the cheese cream:
In another bowl, beat the four egg yolks with 150 g of sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla essence until you obtain a creamy mixture. Add the cottage cheese, which you can pass through a sieve to avoid lumps. Mix well. Then, incorporate the sour cream and semolina, mixing gently.

4. Egg whites:
Beat the egg whites with the 2-3 tablespoons of sugar until you obtain a firm foam. It is important to add a pinch of salt to stabilize the foam. After the egg whites are beaten, gently fold them into the cheese cream using a spatula, being careful not to let them deflate.

5. Assembling the cake:
Pour the cheese cream over the base in the dish, leveling it. Use the remaining dough to form a layer on top of the cream. Roll it out gently with a rolling pin, being careful not to break the cream. Prick the surface with a fork here and there to allow steam to escape during baking.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 175-180°C. Bake the cake for 60-90 minutes, depending on your oven. It is good to check the cake after 60 minutes, and if it is golden and slightly firm to the touch, it is ready. Let it cool completely before cutting.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Use fresh cottage cheese, as this will provide a finer texture and better taste.
- If you want a more flavorful cake, you can add a few drops of almond essence or a pinch of cinnamon to the cheese cream.
- Give your cake a touch of freshness by serving it with a berry sauce or a dollop of sour cream on top.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can you use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a creamier texture. Be sure to adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the cheese you choose.

2. How can I keep the cake fresh?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen, but it is recommended to keep it covered to avoid freezer odors.

3. What drinks pair well with cheesecake?
This cake pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or a light white wine. Additionally, a cup of black coffee will wonderfully complement the rich taste of the cheese.

Nutritional benefits

This cheesecake contains cottage cheese, which is an excellent source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health. The eggs add a boost of quality protein, and the sour cream contributes healthy fats. However, considering that it is a dessert, it is advisable to consume it in moderation.

Possible variations

- Add fresh or dried fruits to the cheese cream for a fruity note.
- You can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Try adding a few chopped nuts to the dough for extra crunch and flavor.

This cheesecake is not just a delicious dessert but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. Whether you enjoy it on a special occasion or simply as a personal treat, each slice is an explosion of taste and texture. So, don't hesitate to experiment and enjoy every step of cooking!

 Ingredients: For the crust: - 500 g flour, - 1 packet of baking powder mixed with lemon juice, - 150 g butter (margarine), - 150 g sugar, - 1 vial of vanilla essence. - 2 eggs. For the cream: - 750-850 g cottage cheese, - 150 g sugar, - 4 eggs, - 1 packet of vanilla sugar, - grated lemon peel, - 3 heaping tablespoons of sour cream, - 2-3 tablespoons of semolina, - plus 2-3 tablespoons of sugar for the beaten egg whites.