Savory mini cheesecakes with ham and nuts

Savory mini cheesecakes with ham and nuts

If you are looking for a special appetizer that will impress and satisfy even the most refined tastes, you have found the perfect recipe! These savory mini cheesecakes with ham and nuts are ideal for parties, festive meals, or simply to indulge yourself. With a fine texture and exquisite taste, they are easy to prepare and look splendid.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Refrigeration time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 30 mini cheesecakes

Ingredients:

For the base with breadsticks:
- 150 grams of ground breadsticks (I recommend using plain or flavored breadsticks, depending on your preferences)
- 70-80 ml melted margarine

For the cheesecake cream:
- 2 slices of pressed ham (prosciutto cotto), finely chopped
- 200 grams of Philadelphia cream cheese
- 200 ml whipping cream
- 50 ml milk
- 6 grams of gelatin sheets
- Salt, to taste

For decoration:
- Pieces of roasted nuts (choose pecans or classic walnuts, based on preference)
- Slices of prosciutto cut with cookie cutters in flower and butterfly shapes

Recipe story:
Cheesecake is a beloved dessert worldwide, and the savory version brings a fresh twist to appetizer preparations. This recipe is inspired by the tradition of combining cheese with savory ingredients, resulting in a sophisticated appetizer that can be served at special occasions as well as informal gatherings with friends.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the base: Start by grinding the breadsticks in a blender until they become a fine powder. This step is essential for achieving a uniform and crunchy base. Add the melted margarine to the ground breadsticks and mix well. The mixture should be slightly crumbly but moist enough to compact.

2. Forming the mini cheesecakes: Use muffin or cupcake molds, and with the help of a teaspoon, press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of each mold, ensuring you create a layer of about 1.5 cm. Once finished, place the molds on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

3. Preparing the cream: Start by soaking the gelatin sheets in cold water, one at a time, for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, add the Philadelphia cream cheese and whipping cream. Mix everything until you achieve a fluffy and homogeneous consistency.

4. Dissolving the gelatin: In a small saucepan, heat 50 ml of milk (do not let it boil!) and add the squeezed gelatin sheets. Stir well until the gelatin completely dissolves and becomes a syrup.

5. Combining the ingredients: Begin to slowly add the dissolved gelatin to the cream cheese, continuously mixing to avoid lumps. Add the finely chopped pressed ham and mix again. Taste the cream and add salt if necessary.

6. Filling the molds: Use a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip cut off to distribute the cheesecake cream over the breadstick base, forming attractive peaks.

7. Decorating: Before placing the mini cheesecakes in the refrigerator, decorate them with roasted nuts and slices of prosciutto cut into flower or butterfly shapes. This will add a splash of color and a gourmet appearance.

8. Refrigerating: Leave the mini cheesecakes in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes or until the cream sets well.

Serving:
These savory mini cheesecakes are perfect to be served as an appetizer at a party or as part of a platter with various snacks. You can pair them with a dry white wine or craft beer, and for a touch of freshness, offer a green salad with lemon dressing alongside.

Nutritional benefits:
These mini cheesecakes are not only delicious but also filling due to the cheese and nuts content, which provide proteins and healthy fats. Additionally, nuts are rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for the heart.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace margarine with butter? Yes, butter will add a richer flavor, but make sure it is well melted.
2. What else can I use instead of ham? You can experiment with smoked salmon or tofu for a vegetarian option.
3. How can I store the mini cheesecakes? Keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain freshness for 2-3 days.

Possible variations:
- You can add herbs to the cream cheese, such as dill or basil, for a more intense flavor.
- Replace the nuts with sunflower seeds or roasted hazelnuts.

These savory mini cheesecakes with ham and nuts are not just an appetizer, but a true culinary experience. So, don’t hesitate to try them and enjoy the compliments from your guests!

 Ingredients: For the base with breadsticks: 150 grams of finely ground breadsticks with a blender 70 or 80 ml melted margarine For the cheesecake cream: 2 slices of pressed ham, prosciutto cotto 200 grams of Philadelphia, one box 200 ml of whipping cream a little milk 6 grams of gelatin sheets salt For decoration: pieces of nuts prosciutto cut with cookie cutters in the shape of flowers and butterflies.

 Tags:  mini cheesecake appetizers appetizers with ham savory cheesecake