Introduction
The festive season is a time for celebration, and what better way to indulge than with a delightful cheesecake? This traditional Polish Christmas cheesecake, known as “Sernik Świąteczny,” offers a unique blend of flavors that captivates the palate. Its creamy texture paired with a rich crust makes it a must-have for holiday gatherings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 500g of twaróg cheese (or farmer’s cheese)
– 200g of sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 100g of butter, melted
– 200ml of sour cream
– 100g of vanilla sugar
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– Zest of one lemon
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 150g of digestive biscuits (for the crust)
– 50g of butter (for the crust)
Prep Time
Preparation for the Sernik Świąteczny takes approximately 30 minutes. This includes the time needed to gather ingredients, prepare the crust, and mix the filling until smooth.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cheesecake requires about 60 minutes to bake. Overall, the total time from prep to serving is around 1 hour and 30 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings, making it perfect for festive gatherings and celebrations with family and friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Crust
Crush the biscuits finely and mix them with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to create a uniform crust.
Step 2: Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese and sugar. Use a mixer to beat them together until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Adding the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Incorporating Flavors
Add in the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
Step 5: Baking the Cheesecake
Pour the cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Bake in a preheated oven until the center is set but still slightly wobbly.
Step 6: Cooling
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for a couple of hours to cool gradually, which helps prevent cracks.
Step 7: Chilling
Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for several hours or overnight before serving to allow it to set completely.
Step 8: Serving
Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled, optionally topped with fruit or chocolate sauce.
Notes
Note 1: Ingredient Variations
You can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a different flavor and texture.
Note 2: Storage Instructions
Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Note 3: Freezing Tips
The cheesecake can also be frozen for longer storage; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
Note 4: Avoiding Cracks
To minimize cracks, avoid overmixing the ingredients and make sure to cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven.
