Embark on a culinary journey with this Cheesecake with Streusel and Cherries, a dessert that beautifully marries the creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet tartness of cherries, all topped with a crumbly, flavorful streusel. This cake is a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake, incorporating layers of flavor and texture that are sure to impress. The addition of mascarpone to the filling adds a luxurious richness, while the ground almonds and optional cinnamon in the streusel bring a nutty warmth that complements the cherries perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This:
This cheesecake recipe stands out for its combination of a smooth and creamy filling with the crunchy texture of the streusel topping, offering a contrast that’s both pleasing to the palate and the eye. The cherries provide a burst of juicy flavor that cuts through the richness, making each bite a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy. It’s a versatile dessert that’s equally suitable for a casual family gathering or a more formal dinner party.
Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for any celebration, be it a birthday, holiday, or just a special weekend treat. This cheesecake is also a fantastic choice for bringing to potlucks or serving at brunches, as it pairs wonderfully with both coffee and tea.
Decoration Tips:
For an extra touch of elegance, dust the cooled cheesecake with powdered sugar right before serving. If you’re feeling creative, garnish with fresh cherries or a drizzle of cherry sauce for added color and flavor.
Ingredients for Base and Streusel:
- 200g butter
- 300g flour
- 50g ground almonds
- 150g sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: cinnamon or chopped almonds for the streusel
Ingredients for Filling:
- 750g low-fat quark (or a similar soft cheese)
- 250g mascarpone
- 2 eggs
- 200ml cream
- 250g sugar
- 45g cornstarch
- Zest of one lemon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Cherry Layer:
- 200g sour cherries, drained
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Mix the ingredients for the base and streusel to form a crumbly texture. Press 2/3 of this mixture into the bottom of a 26cm springform pan to form the base.
- For the filling, combine the quark, mascarpone, eggs, cream, sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Spread this mixture over the prepared base.
- Distribute the cherries evenly over the filling, pressing them in slightly. If desired, knead a pinch of cinnamon and some chopped almonds into the remaining streusel, then sprinkle over the top of the cake.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Cover with baking paper after 30 minutes to prevent over-browning. Leave the cake in the turned-off oven for an additional 15 minutes to set.
- Allow to cool completely before refrigerating overnight. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy this Cheesecake with Streusel and Cherries, a dessert that promises not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually stunning addition to your table.
