Quixotic Cheesecake

Quixotic Cheesecake Recipe with Eggplant, Chocolate, and Walnuts

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 12 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Quixotic Cheesecake is a unique and decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, eggplant, and citrus. This recipe is sure to impress your guests with its unexpected combination of ingredients and delicious taste.

History

The origins of Quixotic Cheesecake are a bit mysterious, but it is believed to have been created by a creative chef looking to experiment with new and unusual flavor combinations. The name "Quixotic" reflects the whimsical and adventurous nature of this dessert.

Ingredients

Cheesecake with Nut Crust and Citrus Sauce

For the nut Crust:
5 tbsp of softened butter
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 cup of granulated sugar
2 cups of untoasted walnuts
For the Cheesecake Filling:
1 large eggplant (about 1.5 lb or 680 g)
4 large eggs
0.75 tsp of salt
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 package (8 oz or 227 g) of cream cheese
2 tsp of vanilla extract
For the Sauce:
juice of 3 oranges and 2 lemons
0.5 cup of granulated sugar
2 tbsp of butter
0.75 tsp of salt
0.33 tsp of ground cloves
3 pieces of chopped crystallized ginger
0.5 cup of coarsely chopped walnuts

How to prepare

1. To make Nut Crust: Combine butter, salt, and sugar in a food processor. Mix until creamy. Add walnuts and process until the ingredients are smooth. Place the nut mixture into a 10-inch deep-dish pie plate. Using a spatula, build up the sides and smooth out the bottom to form the crust. Set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
3. To make Cheesecake Filling: Slice off the stem end of a large eggplant. Cut off about 2 inches more and peel. Cut the chunk into 1-inch cubes and place them in a food processor. Process the eggplant, yielding about 0.5 cup of eggplant purée. Add eggs and process. Add salt, sugar, and chocolate chips, and process on high speed for 1 minute. Add cream cheese and vanilla, and process. Let the chocolate bits stay in the mixture, as they will sink to form the bottom cheesecake layer. Pour the mixture into the nut crust. Slice the remainder of the eggplant, with the skin on, into 0.13-inch-thick rounds. Wrap them in plastic and set aside.
4. Bake for 55 minutes, or until the center is firm. Remove from the oven and cool for at least 30 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, to make the Sauce: Combine orange and lemon juices, sugar, butter, salt, cloves, and chopped ginger in a large saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring often, until boiling. Reduce the heat to low, stirring occasionally. Place the eggplant slices in the saucepan and cook for 25 minutes.
6. Toast the walnuts until golden. Remove the eggplant slices from the sauce mixture and arrange them attractively on the cheesecake, overlapping slices if necessary. Add nuts to the sauce.
7. Spoon 6 tbsp of the sauce, including nuts, over the eggplant slices. Cover the cheesecake in plastic or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Refrigerate the remaining sauce.
8. To serve, heat the sauce over low heat. Using a sharp knife, cut the cheesecake into 12 portions and place them on plates. Spoon the sauce over each serving and serve.

Variations

Try using different types of nuts for the crust, such as almonds or pecans.
Experiment with different citrus fruits for the sauce, such as grapefruit or blood orange.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to process the eggplant thoroughly to create a smooth and creamy texture for the cheesecake filling.

- Be careful not to overbake the cheesecake, as it can become dry and lose its creamy texture.

- Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the sauce will enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Quixotic Cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert experience.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Quixotic Cheesecake is to process the eggplant thoroughly to create a smooth and creamy texture for the filling. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to achieve the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are allergic to nuts, you can use graham crackers or cookie crumbs for the crust instead. You can also use a gluten-free crust if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheesecake filling and sauce ahead of time and assemble the dessert just before serving. This will save you time on the day of your event.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the eggplant slices on top of the cheesecake in a decorative pattern for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Quixotic Cheesecake pairs well with a glass of dessert wine, such as a late-harvest Riesling or a sweet Moscato. The citrus notes in the sauce will complement the fruity flavors of the wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 380 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 32g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 24g per serving

Saturated Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 7g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C.

Alergens

Contains nuts and dairy (butter, cream cheese)

Summary

Quixotic Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fat and calories. It should be enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Quixotic Cheesecake is a unique and delicious dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat for yourself. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was like nothing I had ever seen before - a Quixotic Cheesecake. The name alone intrigued me, and as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew I had to give it a try.

I first came across the recipe for Quixotic Cheesecake at a small bakery in the heart of Paris. I was on a trip with my husband, exploring the charming streets and sampling the delicious pastries that the city is known for. As soon as I took a bite of the Quixotic Cheesecake, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

The owner of the bakery, a kind old woman named Madame Dupont, took me under her wing and taught me the secrets of her famous cheesecake. She showed me how to make the creamy cheesecake filling, flavored with hints of lemon and lavender. She taught me how to create the delicate almond crust, perfectly complementing the richness of the cheesecake.

Madame Dupont explained that the name "Quixotic Cheesecake" came from the whimsical nature of the dessert. It was a dessert that seemed almost impossible to create, with its intricate layers and unique flavors. But she assured me that with patience and practice, I would be able to master the art of making this special cheesecake.

I spent hours in Madame Dupont's bakery, watching her expertly whip up batches of Quixotic Cheesecake. I took notes, asked questions, and soaked up every bit of knowledge she had to offer. And finally, after weeks of practice, I was able to make my very own Quixotic Cheesecake.

The first time I made the cheesecake at home, I was nervous. Would it turn out as delicious as Madame Dupont's? Would I be able to capture the essence of Paris in my own kitchen? But as I took my first bite of the finished cheesecake, all my doubts melted away.

The Quixotic Cheesecake was a triumph. The creamy filling was perfectly balanced with the tangy lemon and floral lavender. The almond crust added a wonderful crunch, and the whole dessert was a symphony of flavors and textures. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire.

Over the years, I have made the Quixotic Cheesecake for family gatherings, dinner parties, and special occasions. Each time, it is met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I am always happy to share the story of how I learned to make this special dessert, and how it has become a symbol of my love for cooking and my passion for trying new things.

As I grow older, I find comfort in the kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scents and tastes of my favorite recipes. And whenever I make the Quixotic Cheesecake, I am transported back to that small bakery in Paris, learning from Madame Dupont and discovering the magic of creating something truly special.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a dessert that is both whimsical and delicious, look no further than the Quixotic Cheesecake. It may take a bit of time and effort to master, but the end result is more than worth it. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be able to pass on the recipe to someone special, just like I have done with you. Bon appétit!