Strawberry Cheesecake I

Delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe from USA - Ingredients & Directions

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 8

Introduction

Strawberry Cheesecake I is a delicious and creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy taste of fresh strawberries. This recipe is perfect for any special occasion or as a sweet treat for yourself.

History

Cheesecake has been enjoyed for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Greece. The modern version of cheesecake, made with cream cheese, originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The addition of strawberries to cheesecake is a popular variation that adds a burst of flavor and color to the classic dessert.

Ingredients

2 tbsp margarine
0.5 cup graham cracker crumbs
8 oz (227 g) low-fat cottage cheese
0.33 cup evaporated skim milk [1]
1.5 tbsp unflavored gelatin (1.5 packets)
2 tbsp sugar, divided
0.5 cup orange juice
0.5 tsp grated orange rind
2 egg whites
0.13 tsp salt
2 tbsp water
1 cup crushed strawberries [2]

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Melt the margarine in a 9-inch pan.
Add the crumbs and mix well.
Press the mixture over the bottom of the pan.
Bake for 5 to 7 minutes and let it cool.
Sieve the cottage cheese or puree it in a blender.
Add the milk and stir until smooth. Chill the mixture.
In a saucepan, mix 1.5 tbsp of gelatin and 1 tbsp of sugar.
Add the juice and rind.
Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until the gelatin is dissolved.
Remove from heat and let it stand at room temperature.
In a medium bowl, beat the egg whites with salt until stiff.
Fold in the gelatin and cottage cheese.
Pour the mixture over the crumbs and refrigerate until set before adding the glaze.
For the glaze, mix the remaining 0.5 tbsp of gelatin with water and 1 tbsp of sugar.
Heat the mixture until the gelatin is dissolved and then stir in the strawberries.
Pour the mixture over the cheesecake and spread it with a spatula.
Refrigerate until firm.

Variations

Try using different fruits such as raspberries or blueberries in place of strawberries for a different flavor profile.
Add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the cheesecake for a decadent twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the cottage cheese mixture before adding it to the gelatin mixture to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Be sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form to create a light and fluffy cheesecake filling.

- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours before adding the strawberry glaze to allow it to set properly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Strawberry Cheesecake I with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top for a beautiful presentation.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to properly chill the cheesecake before adding the strawberry glaze to ensure a firm and set dessert.

- Use a springform pan for easy removal and serving of the cheesecake.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of margarine for the crust.

- Regular cream cheese can be used in place of low-fat cottage cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

The cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the cheesecake with fresh mint leaves and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Strawberry Cheesecake I with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of hot tea for a delightful dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 24g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 8g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 7g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Calcium: 10% of daily value per serving

Iron: 6% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy and eggs

Summary

This Strawberry Cheesecake I recipe is a delicious dessert option that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also provides a good source of Vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Summary

Strawberry Cheesecake I is a classic dessert that is sure to impress your guests with its creamy texture and sweet strawberry flavor. Enjoy this delicious treat for any occasion or as a special indulgence for yourself.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Strawberry Cheesecake. It was a warm summer day, and I was at a friend's house for a backyard barbecue. As we sat around the table enjoying our meal, my friend's mother brought out a gorgeous, creamy cheesecake topped with plump, juicy strawberries. I had never tasted anything like it before.

I begged my friend's mother for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to share it with me. She explained that she had learned how to make the cheesecake from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to continue this tradition in my own family.

I carefully copied down the recipe, making sure to take note of all the ingredients and steps involved. The next day, I gathered everything I needed and set to work in my own kitchen. As I mixed together the cream cheese, sugar, and eggs, I couldn't help but think of the many hands that had lovingly prepared this dessert before me.

Once the cheesecake was in the oven, I turned my attention to the strawberry topping. I sliced the berries and simmered them with sugar and a splash of lemon juice until they were soft and syrupy. The sweet aroma filled my kitchen, and I knew that this dessert was going to be something special.

When the cheesecake had cooled and the strawberries were spooned on top, I couldn't resist taking a bite. The creamy filling was perfectly tangy, and the sweet strawberries added just the right amount of freshness. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own collection.

Over the years, I have made this Strawberry Cheesecake countless times for family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. Each time, it has been met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always smile as I share the story of how I first discovered this delicious dessert and how it has become a beloved tradition in my family.

I have experimented with different variations of the recipe, adding a hint of vanilla or a touch of almond extract to the filling. I have even tried using different types of berries for the topping, but none compare to the sweet, juicy strawberries that first captured my heart.

As I pass this recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I hope that they will feel the same sense of anticipation and joy that I did when I first discovered it. I hope that they will continue to share this dessert with their loved ones, creating memories and traditions that will last a lifetime.

In a world that is constantly changing, there is something comforting about holding onto a recipe that has stood the test of time. This Strawberry Cheesecake is more than just a dessert – it is a connection to the past, a celebration of love and family, and a reminder of the simple joys that can be found in a homemade treat. I am grateful for the friend's mother who shared this recipe with me all those years ago, and I am proud to continue the tradition in my own kitchen.