Zebra cheesecake with orange jelly

Zebra Cheesecake with Orange Jelly - An Irresistible Delight

If you're looking for a dessert that impresses both in appearance and taste, the zebra cheesecake with orange jelly is the perfect choice. This refined dessert, with its creamy texture and pleasant contrast between the flavors of cheese and oranges, adds a touch of magic to your table. Although preparing it requires some effort, the final result is worth every minute invested.

Preparation and Serving Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 1 hour
- Total: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the cocoa shortcrust pastry:
- 250 g flour
- 25 g sifted cocoa powder
- 125 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 2 egg yolks (keep the whites for the filling)
- 110 g sugar
- 1 tablespoon yogurt
- A pinch of salt
- Zest of one orange (optional)

For the filling:
- 5 eggs + 2 egg whites (if the eggs are small, use 6)
- 750 g ricotta
- 200 g Philadelphia cheese
- 225-250 g sugar (depending on preferences)
- 2 tablespoons sifted cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons rice flour (you can also use cornstarch or vanilla pudding)
- Juice and zest of 2 oranges
- Vanilla (optional)

For the orange jelly:
- 200 ml orange juice (strained)
- 2-3 tablespoons vanilla sugar
- 1 packet Tortagel or gelatin (for a classic version, use regular gelatin)

Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and, if desired, the orange zest. Mix the dry ingredients well.
2. Add the soft butter and the two egg yolks. Knead until you achieve a homogeneous, slightly sticky dough.
3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This will ensure a tender texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
1. While the dough is cooling, prepare the filling. Grate the orange zest and squeeze the juice, reserving about 50 ml for the filling.
2. In a large bowl, beat the ricotta and Philadelphia cheese with the sugar and vanilla sugar (if using) until creamy.
3. Add the eggs and egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate the necessary air.
4. Divide the mixture into two bowls. In one, add the rice flour and half of the orange juice, mixing well. In the other, add the cocoa powder and the remaining orange juice.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a tart pan with a removable bottom by greasing it with butter and dusting it with cocoa (or flour).
2. Roll out the chilled dough in the prepared pan, ensuring an even coverage of the bottom.
3. Using two spoons, alternately add a spoonful of the white mixture and a spoonful of the cocoa mixture, continuing until both mixtures are used up. This step will create the zebra effect.
4. Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 1 hour. Don’t be fooled by the soft appearance of the center; let the cake cool in the oven to prevent cracking.

Step 4: Prepare the Orange Jelly
1. After the cheesecake has cooled, prepare the jelly. In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, vanilla sugar, and Tortagel (or gelatin). Cook over low heat, stirring continuously until the jelly thickens.
2. Allow it to cool slightly, then pour it evenly over the cooled cheesecake.

Step 5: Serving
1. Use a sharp knife, moistened in warm water, to cut the cheesecake into portions.
2. Serve it as a dessert at festive meals or family gatherings, admiring the visual effect of the chocolate stripes and the shiny orange jelly.

Practical Tips
- Vanilla sugar: I recommend making it at home by grinding a vanilla pod with granulated sugar. The aroma will be exceptional!
- Filling texture: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth mixture.
- Variations: You can experiment with other types of cheese or add flavor extracts like almond or rum for an extra touch of personality.

Nutritional Benefits
The zebra cheesecake with orange jelly provides a good source of protein from the ricotta and Philadelphia cheese, while the oranges add vitamin C, contributing to a stronger immune system. The rice flour and cocoa provide fiber and antioxidants, making this dessert a healthier choice compared to other cakes.

Calories
A serving of zebra cheesecake with orange jelly contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portion size.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute ricotta with mascarpone or cottage cheese, but ensure the final texture remains creamy.

2. How can I improve the texture of the cheesecake?
- Beat the ingredients well to incorporate air. Also, avoid opening the oven during baking.

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
- Absolutely! The cheesecake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The jelly can be added just before serving for a fresh look.

This zebra cheesecake with orange jelly is not just a dessert; it's a true culinary experience. So, put on your chef's attire, don your gloves, and let your imagination soar in the kitchen!

 Ingredients: Shortcrust pastry with cocoa: 250 g flour, 25 g sifted cocoa, 125 g butter, 2 egg yolks (keep the whites for the filling), 110 g sugar, 1 tablespoon of yogurt, a pinch of salt, a little grated orange peel, if you like. Filling: 5 eggs + 2 egg whites (if the eggs are small, use 6), 750 g ricotta, 200 g Philadelphia cheese, 225-250 g sugar, to taste, 2 tablespoons sifted cocoa, 2 tablespoons rice flour (starch or vanilla pudding), 2 oranges, vanilla.

 Tags:  cheesecake classic cheesecake recipe jelly recipes jelly cake