Eggless Paan Cheesecake Recipe
Indulge in the unique and aromatic fusion of flavors with this Eggless Paan Cheesecake. Infused with the essence of paan (betel leaves), gulkand, and a smooth cheesecake filling, this dessert is a delightful twist on the traditional cheesecake. Perfect for those who prefer eggless desserts, this no-bake cheesecake is light, creamy, and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, a festive gathering, or just to satisfy your sweet cravings, this dessert is sure to leave everyone impressed!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Betel leaves (paan) | 12 leaves |
| Hung Curd (Greek Yogurt) | 300 grams |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 200 grams |
| Fresh cream | 150 ml |
| Caster sugar | 120 grams |
| Agar agar or gelatin | 1-1/2 tablespoons |
| Gulkand | 3 teaspoons |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
Servings
| Serving Size | 12 servings |
Cuisine & Course
| Cuisine | Fusion |
|---|---|
| Course | Dessert |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Gelatin or Agar Agar
- In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin or agar agar in water. Let it sit aside for about 10 to 15 minutes to bloom and fully activate.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Mixture
- In a blender or food processor, combine the paneer (homemade cottage cheese) and hung curd (Greek yogurt). Blend them together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Transfer the paneer and curd mixture into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the fresh cream, caster sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir the ingredients together until they are well incorporated and smooth.
Step 3: Add the Meetha Paan and Gelatin Mixture
- Gently mix the meetha paan (sweetened betel leaf mixture) into the cheesecake mixture. The gulkand (rose petal preserve) adds a delightful sweetness, which complements the tangy yogurt and creamy paneer perfectly.
- Once the meetha paan is evenly mixed, add the bloomed gelatin or agar agar mixture. Stir well to combine. This will help the cheesecake set without the need for eggs.
Step 4: Refrigerate to Semi-Set the Mixture
- Place the cheesecake mixture into the refrigerator for about 20 to 25 minutes. It should become semi-set, soft, and pipeable but not runny.
Step 5: Prepare the Betel Leaves
- While the cheesecake mixture is setting, prepare the betel leaves. Take each leaf and roll it into a tight cone shape, securing the cone with a toothpick. Alternatively, you can place the cones into a kulfi set (Indian popsicle molds) to hold the shape while you fill them.
Step 6: Fill the Paan Cones
- Once the cheesecake mixture is semi-set, give it a good stir to ensure an even consistency.
- Transfer the mixture into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the tip cut off. This will make it easier to fill the paan leaf cones. You can also use a spoon to fill the cones, though the piping bag will give you more control.
- Carefully pipe the cheesecake mixture into each betel leaf cone, filling it up completely. Be sure to pack the mixture gently but firmly.
Step 7: Set the Cheesecake
- Once all the cones are filled, place them upright in glasses or conical molds to help them maintain their shape.
- Return the filled cones to the refrigerator and allow them to set fully for about 20 more minutes. The cheesecake should firm up and hold its shape when you touch it.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Once the Eggless Paan Cheesecake is fully set, you can garnish it with some shaved coconut or a cherry on top for a decorative touch.
- Serve the cheesecake chilled as a refreshing and unique dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Eggless Paan Cheesecake as a luxurious dessert after a meal or to satisfy your sweet cravings in the evening. It pairs beautifully with Indian dishes like Barnyard Millet Mushroom Biryani and Mirchi Ka Salan, adding a fun, refreshing contrast to rich and spicy flavors.
This fusion cheesecake is an innovative twist on the traditional paan and will definitely be a conversation starter. Enjoy this eggless delight with your loved ones, and let the unique flavors of gulkand, vanilla, and paan create a memorable culinary experience!
Additional Tips & Notes
- Gelatin Substitute: If you are unable to find agar agar, you can substitute it with gelatin. Just make sure to dissolve the gelatin according to the package instructions.
- Betel Leaves: Fresh betel leaves are essential for this recipe, as they bring a unique aromatic flavor. If you cannot find fresh betel leaves, you may not be able to replicate the exact flavor, but you can try using other flavoring agents like mint or rose petals.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different flavors or garnishes to suit your taste. You can try adding a dash of cardamom or saffron to the cheesecake mixture for extra richness and fragrance.
This Eggless Paan Cheesecake is a perfect fusion dessert that brings together the tradition of paan with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake. Its unique flavor profile and stunning presentation make it an ideal dish for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a truly unforgettable dessert experience!
