Cheese Vegetarian Cheesecake: A delicious snack for any occasion

Cheese Vegetarian Cheesecake: A Delicious Snack for Any Occasion

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling Ingredients:

• 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Topping (optional):

• Fresh berries
• Fruit compote
• Whipped cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar.
   • Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
   • Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the 1 cup of sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
   • Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and cornstarch until smooth.
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Finally, add the heavy cream and beat until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
4. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
   • Smooth the top with a spatula.
   • Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed.
   • Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracks from forming.
5. Chill the Cheesecake:
   • Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
   • Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set properly.
6. Serve:
   • Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the sides of the pan.
   • Remove the springform pan ring.
   • Top the cheesecake with fresh berries, fruit compote, or whipped cream, if desired.
   • Slice and serve chilled.

Tips:

• For a Perfect Texture: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
• Preventing Cracks: Avoid overmixing the batter and bake the cheesecake in a water bath for an even, gentle heat.
• Flavor Variations: Add a swirl of fruit puree or chocolate into the filling before baking for a fun twist.

Enjoy this rich and creamy vegetarian cheesecake as a delightful snack or dessert for any occasion!