Orange cheesecake

Low-Sugar Orange Cheesecake Recipe with Fresh Fruit Toppings

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2-4 hours (chilling time) | Servings: 8

Introduction

Orange cheesecake is a delicious and refreshing dessert that combines the tangy flavor of oranges with the creamy texture of cottage cheese. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cheesecake, as it is low in sugar and high in protein.

History

The origins of orange cheesecake are unclear, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional cheesecake recipes that date back to ancient Greece. The addition of oranges to the recipe likely came about as a way to add a fresh and citrusy flavor to the dessert.

Ingredients

Crust

1 cup soft whole wheat bread crumbs
0.25 cup bran (natural)
0.25 cup brown sugar substitute (SugarTwin)
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp butter or margarine

Filling

1 tbsp unflavored gelatin (1 pkg)
0.33 cup water
2 cup 2% cottage cheese
0.33 cup orange juice
1 tsp orange rind
1 small banana
2 tbsp white sugar substitute (SugarTwin)
1 tsp lemon juice
1 small orange
8 strawberries or grapes

How to prepare

To make the crust, combine crumbs, bran, sweetener, and cinnamon in a bowl.
Using your fingers, rub in the butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Press the mixture onto the bottom of a 7 or 8" springform pan.
For the filling, in a small saucepan, sprinkle gelatin over water and let it stand for about 5 minutes to soften.
Place the saucepan over low heat and stir until the gelatin dissolves.
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
In a food processor or blender, combine cottage cheese, orange juice, orange rind, banana, sweetener, lemon juice, and dissolved gelatin.
Puree the mixture until smooth (alternatively, you can mash the cottage cheese and banana along with the sweetener, juices, and gelatin, or press it through a sieve).
Pour the mixture over the prepared crust.
Cover and chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours or until it sets.
When ready to serve, remove the side from the pan.
Using a wide metal lifter, carefully transfer the cheesecake off the bottom of the pan onto a serving plate, or leave it on the base of the springform pan.
Peel the orange, removing the pith and thin membrane.
Remove the orange sections.
Slice the strawberries or grapes.
Arrange the orange slices, strawberries or grapes on top of the cheesecake.

Variations

Try using different fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries in place of the oranges for a different flavor profile.
Add a tablespoon of orange liqueur to the filling for an extra kick of citrus flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use a springform pan for this recipe to easily remove the cheesecake once it has set.

- Be sure to allow the gelatin to cool to room temperature before adding it to the cottage cheese mixture to prevent lumps from forming.

- For a smoother texture, puree the cottage cheese mixture in a food processor or blender until it is completely smooth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve orange cheesecake chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of orange zest on top for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to allow the cheesecake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours before serving to allow it to set properly.

- Use a wide metal lifter to carefully transfer the cheesecake off the bottom of the pan onto a serving plate for a clean presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have bran, you can use crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits for the crust.

- If you don't have SugarTwin, you can use regular sugar or another sugar substitute of your choice.

Make Ahead Tips

Orange cheesecake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the top of the cheesecake with fresh orange slices, strawberries, or grapes for a colorful and festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve orange cheesecake with a cup of hot tea or a glass of sparkling wine for a delightful dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover orange cheesecake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Do not freeze as the texture may become grainy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of orange cheesecake contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of orange cheesecake contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of orange cheesecake contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of orange cheesecake contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Orange cheesecake is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cottage cheese) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Orange cheesecake is a nutritious dessert option that is low in sugar and high in protein. It is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

Summary

Orange cheesecake is a delicious and nutritious dessert option that is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cheesecake. With its tangy orange flavor and creamy texture, this dessert is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining, and I had just finished weeding my garden when my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, came over with a plate of freshly baked orange cheesecake. The aroma wafted through the air, and I couldn't resist taking a bite. It was the most delicious cheesecake I had ever tasted - creamy, tangy, and bursting with citrus flavor.

I begged Mrs. Jenkins for the recipe, and she kindly obliged. As I read through the list of ingredients and instructions, I knew I had to give it a try. I had always been a fan of cheesecake, but the addition of orange zest and juice was a game changer. It added a bright and refreshing twist to the classic dessert.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients from my pantry and set to work in the kitchen. I whipped up the cream cheese, sugar, and eggs until they were smooth and creamy. Then I folded in the orange zest and juice, along with a splash of vanilla extract. The scent of citrus filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I poured the mixture into a graham cracker crust and popped it into the oven. As it baked, the cheesecake filled my kitchen with a tantalizing aroma. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. After letting it cool and setting it in the fridge, I finally took a bite.

The first bite was pure bliss. The creamy texture of the cheesecake combined with the zesty orange flavor was a match made in heaven. I savored each bite, savoring the sweet and tangy flavors dancing on my taste buds. I knew I had found a new favorite dessert.

I made the orange cheesecake for every special occasion after that - birthdays, holidays, you name it. It became a staple in my dessert repertoire, and my family and friends couldn't get enough of it. They would always ask for the recipe, and I happily shared it with them, passing on the delicious tradition.

Over the years, I've made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. I've experimented with different crusts, toppings, and even added a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra decadence. But the core of the recipe remains the same - creamy cheesecake with a burst of citrus flavor.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day when I first tried Mrs. Jenkins' orange cheesecake, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey it has taken me on. It has brought joy and sweetness to my life, and I will always treasure the memories associated with this beloved dessert.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a slice of something special, give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe it will become a cherished tradition in your family, just like it has in mine. Happy baking!