Experience the rich, creamy delight of Traditional Polish Cheesecake, a beloved treat that combines a smooth, dense cheese filling with a buttery shortbread crust. This version of the cheesecake is elegantly finished with a lattice crust, adding a touch of artistic flair. Infused with vanilla and a hint of citrus from orange zest, this cheesecake offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a sophisticated addition to any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This
If you’re a fan of classic cheesecakes with a twist, this Traditional Polish Cheesecake is for you. The shortbread crust provides a unique, crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the silky filling. The orange zest adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness, and the optional raisins offer bursts of sweetness. The lattice top not only makes it visually appealing but also impresses guests with its intricate design.
Perfect Occasion
This cheesecake is ideal for celebrations, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress with a homemade dessert. It’s particularly suited for events where traditional European desserts are celebrated, from Christmas to Easter, or as a sophisticated dessert at dinner parties.
Decoration Tips
- Dust with powdered sugar for a refined finish.
- Garnish with candied orange peel or fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of citrus-infused syrup for added flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 350g All-Purpose Flour
- 180g Butter, cold and grated
- 3-4 Tbsp Powdered Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Vanilla Sugar
- 3 Egg Yolks
- 1/4 tsp Baking Powder
- Pinch of Salt
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1.3 kg Quality Cream Cheese (18% fat recommended)
- 6 Eggs
- 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Vanilla Sugar
- 2 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour
- 2 Tbsp Cornstarch
- 1 Tbsp Orange Zest
- Optional: Raisins
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the grated cold butter and rub into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix in the egg yolks until the dough just comes together. Wrap 2/3 of the dough and chill in the refrigerator for about an hour. Roll out the remaining dough, fit into your baking dish lined with parchment paper, and pre-bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes until slightly golden.
- Make the Filling:
- Blend the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla sugar, flour, and cornstarch, mixing continuously. Stir in the orange zest and raisins if using.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cheese mixture over the pre-baked crust. Roll out the chilled dough and cut into strips to create a lattice pattern over the filling. Brush the lattice with a mixture of egg yolk and a teaspoon of milk.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 60 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent cracking.
- Serving:
- Let the cheesecake cool completely before slicing. Optionally, drizzle with a simple icing or serve as is for a truly delightful dessert experience.
Enjoy this Traditional Polish Cheesecake, a perfect blend of creamy texture and rich flavors that will make any occasion special.
