Indulge in the cozy embrace of this Simple and Delicious Cheesecake with a Gingerbread Crust, a dessert that marries the warmth of gingerbread spices with the creamy delight of cheesecake. Perfect for any occasion, this cheesecake features a spiced gingerbread crust enveloping a smooth, tangy cheese filling, dotted with dollops of jam for an added layer of flavor.
Why You'll Love This Cheesecake:
This cheesecake stands out for its simplicity in preparation and its light, yet indulgent taste. The gingerbread crust adds a unique twist to the traditional cheesecake, offering a spiced, flavorful base that complements the creamy filling. It's a refreshing take on classic desserts, perfect for those who enjoy a hint of spice in their sweets.
Perfect Occasion:
Whether you're looking for a festive dessert for the holidays, a comforting treat for a cozy night in, or a delightful end to a dinner party, this cheesecake is a versatile choice. Its charming appearance and delightful flavors make it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual gatherings to more formal celebrations.
Decoration Tips:
Enhance the presentation by dusting the top with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a snow-like effect. For a festive touch, arrange additional gingerbread cookie cutouts around the edges or on top before serving. Fresh berries or mint leaves can also add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Ingredients:
For the Gingerbread Crust:
- 250g flour
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 150g cold butter, diced
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons gingerbread spice mix
For the Cheese Filling:
- 800g ground cottage cheese
- 1/3 cup sugar (adjust to taste for sweetness)
- 1 packet vanilla custard powder
- 1 egg
Additionally:
- 3 tablespoons jam (sugar-free preferred)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, cold butter, gingerbread spice, and egg. Mix until you achieve a uniform dough. Form into a ball, wrap in cling film, and refrigerate while preparing the filling.
- Preheat the oven to 356°F (180°C) with both top and bottom heat.
- Blend the cottage cheese with sugar, custard powder, and an egg until smooth.
- Divide the gingerbread dough into two parts. Use one part to line the bottom and about 2 cm up the sides of a 24 cm tart pan.
- Spread the cheese filling over the crust and dot the surface with jam.
- With the remaining dough, cut out gingerbread shapes using cookie cutters and arrange them on top of the filling.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the cheesecake is set and the crust is golden.
Enjoy this Simple and Delicious Cheesecake with a Gingerbread Crust, a heartwarming dessert that brings comfort and joy to any table. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, this cheesecake is sure to become a cherished recipe for years to come.