π° Apricot Yogurt Baked Cheesecake π
What is it?
Apricot Yogurt Baked Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fruity goodness of apricots. It features a velvety cheesecake filling infused with the sweet and slightly tart flavor of apricot and often includes a graham cracker crust for a delightful contrast in texture.
History:
The history of cheesecake dates back to ancient Greece, where it was served to athletes during the first Olympic games in 776 BC. The modern version of baked cheesecake likely originated in Europe, with recipes appearing in cookbooks in the 18th century. The addition of yogurt and apricots in this variation is a creative twist on the classic dessert.
Components:
- Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient for the cheesecake filling.
- Sugar: To sweeten the filling.
- Eggs: To provide structure and richness.
- Apricot Puree: This gives the cake its distinct apricot flavor.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds a tangy creaminess.
- Vanilla Extract: For flavor.
- Graham Cracker Crust: A crunchy, buttery base.
- Apricot Topping: Sliced or pureed apricots for decoration and extra apricot flavor.
Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Crust:
- Crush graham crackers and mix them with melted butter and a pinch of sugar.
- Press the mixture into the base of a greased springform pan. Chill.
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Prepare the Filling:
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Blend in Greek yogurt and apricot puree until well combined.
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Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325Β°F (160Β°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
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Cool and Chill:
- Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
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Apricot Topping:
- Before serving, top the cheesecake with sliced or pureed apricots.
Time Needed:
The total time required to prepare an Apricot Yogurt Baked Cheesecake, including baking and cooling, is approximately 5-6 hours. The preparation time can vary but typically takes about 20-30 minutes, and the baking time is around 50-60 minutes. The remaining time is for cooling and chilling to allow the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy your delightful slice of Apricot Yogurt Baked Cheesecake! π°ππ
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apricot Yogurt Baked Cheesecake:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10-12 grams
- Cholesterol: 70-90 mg
- Sodium: 200-250 mg
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
- Sugars: 20-25 grams
- Protein: 7-9 grams
Health Information:
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Moderation: Cheesecake is a delicious but calorie-dense dessert, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.
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Calcium: Dairy-based ingredients like cream cheese and yogurt provide calcium, which is essential for bone health.
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Protein: Cheesecake contains some protein, which can help with satiety.
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Sugars: Be mindful of the sugar content, as excessive sugar consumption can have negative health effects. Using apricot puree as a sweetener adds some natural fruit sugars.
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Fat: Cheesecake is relatively high in saturated fat due to the cream cheese. Saturated fats should be consumed in moderation as they can impact heart health.
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Portion Control: Consider cutting smaller slices to manage calorie and sugar intake.
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Fruit Benefits: The apricot puree contributes vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
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Balance: Balance your cheesecake consumption with a well-rounded, nutritious diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Remember, the nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe, so it’s a good idea to calculate the exact values based on your preparation. Enjoy your cheesecake as an occasional indulgence and balance it with a healthy lifestyle. π°ππ