The cheesecake is an American dessert but now known throughout the world: even in Italian cuisine it now plays its part. Today we'll show you how to make a perfect, soft, light cheesecake. This recipe comes from many different sources, trying different ways of making it as suggested by many different people: it may appear difficult, but we assure you that it isn’t. Cheesecake is a dessert that is suitable for many occasions and for many different situations: as a dessert to end a delicious dinner or lunch with guests; at breakfast, to start the day with a bit more flavour; as a snack, with a cup of coffee or tea. And cheesecake can be filled and flavoured in many ways: you can make it with jam, with yogurt, with chocolate etc. ... Our version combines a creamy filling, made with freshly whipped cream, with jam. Select your favourite flavour and then make this magnificent dessert. Thanks to our step-by-step recipe with photos, it will be a doddle.
* approximate values per serving
Prepare the base by finely chopping the biscuits in a food processor, then add the melted butter and mix until it is all well blended. Spread over the bottom of an 18cm springform cake tin and place in the fridge for 1 hour. Meanwhile, prepare the pastry cream: bring some milk to the boil; in a separate bowl whisk the eggs with the sugar, add the cornflour and pour in the hot milk. Put it back on the heat to boil and the mixture will thicken immediately. To this mixture add the gelatine which has been previously soaked in cold water for 10 minutes. Stir and let it cool. As soon as the mixture has cooled add the fresh cream (whipped), mix and pour it over the biscuit base. Finally, let it cool further for 2 hours in the refrigerator. Garnish with the fruit jam.
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With the help of an electric whisk, beat the eggs
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Add the sugar to the eggs and continue to beat well for a few minutes
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While continuing to whisk, add the cornflour
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Finely chop the biscuits and add the melted butter; spread over the base of a cake tin and leave in the fridge for a while
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Add the heated milk to the egg mixture
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To this mixture add the gelatine that you have previously soaked in cold water
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Now add the whipped, fresh cream to the egg mixture
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Pour the creamy egg mixture over the biscuit base which has been resting in the fridge
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The cheesecake is ready: garnish to your taste with your favourite jam
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One of the tastiest variations of cheesecake with jam is the one with crumbled cookies, which gives the dessert an irresistible crunch. To prepare this version, it is essential to choose high-quality dry cookies, such as digestive or butter cookies, which blend perfectly with the melted butter. Once a homogeneous mixture is obtained, the base can be customized by adding spices like cinnamon or a pinch of cocoa powder for a more intense flavor. The jam, which can vary according to taste, completes the dessert with a touch of freshness and sweetness, making every bite a true delight. Served cold, this cheesecake is ideal for concluding a family lunch or for a delicious snack.
Another delicious variation of cheesecake with jam is the Sicilian version, which uses ricotta instead of classic cream cheese. This preparation, typical of Sicilian pastry traditions, gives the dessert a lighter texture and a delicate flavor. To make it, simply mix the ricotta with sugar and whipped cream, creating a soft and velvety cream. The jam, which can be orange or fig, pairs perfectly with the taste of ricotta, making the dessert even more authentic. This Sicilian cheesecake is perfect to be served during holidays or special occasions, bringing a piece of Sicily directly to your table.
For those who wish to enjoy a lighter jam cheesecake, it is possible to prepare a light version without sugar, using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. In the preparation of the crust, whole grain cookies can be used for a higher fiber content while still maintaining crunchiness. The cream can also be lightened by replacing the cream with Greek yogurt, which offers a creamy texture and a fresh flavor. This variant is ideal for those on a diet or for those looking to limit their sugar intake without giving up the pleasure of a delicious dessert. The light jam cheesecake is perfect for a snack or a dessert after dinner, satisfying the sweet craving in a healthier way.
Jam cheesecake, while being a dessert, can provide some nutritional benefits thanks to the ingredients used. Ricotta, for example, is an excellent source of protein and calcium, contributing to the health of bones and muscles. The jam, especially if homemade, can contain vitamins and antioxidants, depending on the chosen fruit. However, it is important to pay attention to calories: a serving of jam cheesecake can contain about 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients and portions. By choosing light variants or healthier ingredients, it is possible to reduce the caloric intake without compromising on taste.
Freezing jam cheesecake is possible, but there are some precautions to consider. It is advisable to freeze the cheesecake before adding the jam, as the texture of the fruit may change once thawed. To freeze, wrap the cheesecake in plastic wrap and then in a sheet of aluminum foil to protect it from air. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you wish to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This practice is useful for preparing desserts in advance and always having a delicious treat ready to enjoy at any time.