Blackberry Cheesecake: A Creamy Delight
Indulge in a luscious, creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of fresh cheese and tangy blackberries with a delicate, crumbly base. This Blackberry Cheesecake is a perfect choice for any special occasion or a simple sweet treat that will wow your guests. With a combination of smooth ricotta and fresh cream cheese, a touch of vanilla, and the vibrant burst of fresh blackberries, this dessert is both decadent and refreshing. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this cheesecake will be an enjoyable project with satisfying results.
Ingredients:
For the Base:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Wholemeal biscuits | 200g |
| Butter (melted) | 100g |
For the Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 500g |
| Ricotta cheese | 250g |
| Fresh liquid cream | 100g |
| Icing sugar | 100g |
| Gelatine sheets | 9g |
| Vanilla bean (seeds) | 1 |
For the Blackberry Topping:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh blackberries | 550g |
| Sugar | 100g |
| Lemon zest | 1 |
| Lemon juice | 35g |
| Gelatine sheets | 6g |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Start by preparing the base of the cheesecake. Melt the butter and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Place the wholemeal biscuits in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. Transfer the crushed biscuits into a mixing bowl.
- Pour the melted butter over the crushed biscuits and stir to combine, ensuring the mixture is evenly coated.
- Lightly butter a 23 cm springform pan and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper. This will help prevent the base from sticking when itβs time to remove the cheesecake from the pan.
- Press the biscuit mixture into the base of the pan using the back of a spoon. Make sure to distribute the crumbs evenly across the bottom to form a solid layer.
- Place the pan in the freezer for 15 minutes to set. Alternatively, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Filling
- While the base is chilling, prepare the creamy filling. Soak the 9g of gelatine sheets in cold water for 10 minutes to soften.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and ricotta. Add the vanilla seeds and icing sugar. Whisk everything together until smooth and well-blended.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the fresh cream over medium heat. Once the cream is almost boiling, remove it from the heat.
- Squeeze the excess water from the softened gelatine sheets and add them to the warm cream. Stir well until the gelatine is completely dissolved and there are no lumps.
- Let the cream mixture cool slightly, then fold it into the cheese mixture. Whisk until you have a smooth and homogeneous filling.
- Remove the pan with the biscuit base from the freezer, then pour the prepared filling over the base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Leave the cheesecake at room temperature while you prepare the blackberry topping.
Step 3: Make the Blackberry Topping
- In a small saucepan, add the blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The blackberries should soften but remain whole, creating a syrupy mixture.
- While the blackberries are simmering, create 12 small holes in the top of the cheesecake using a teaspoon. These holes will allow the berry topping to soak into the cheesecake slightly.
- After the berries are cooked, strain the juice through a fine sieve, reserving the liquid and discarding the solids.
- Reheat the strained blackberry juice in a saucepan and add the remaining 6g of gelatine sheets (which should also be soaked in water for a few minutes). Stir to dissolve the gelatine completely.
- Pour the blackberry syrup and gelatine mixture back over the blackberries in the pan, mixing gently.
- Carefully pour the blackberry mixture over the top of the cheesecake, ensuring it is spread evenly over the entire surface.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing it to fully set and the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the cheesecake is set, remove it from the fridge and carefully release it from the springform pan.
- Slice into generous pieces and serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh blackberries or a dusting of icing sugar if desired.
This Blackberry Cheesecake is the perfect balance of creamy texture and fruity freshness. The rich, velvety filling pairs perfectly with the slightly tangy blackberry topping, creating a dessert thatβs both indulgent and light. Whether for a family gathering, a dinner party, or a special treat just for you, this cheesecake will be sure to impress. Enjoy each slice with a cup of coffee or a refreshing iced tea for the ultimate dessert experience.
