Indulge in the heavenly delight of Alice’s Cheesecake, a tantalizing dessert straight from the culinary treasures of lovewithrecipes.com. This exquisite cheesecake creation seamlessly combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the delicate sweetness of pineapple and cherries, all encased in a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight treat to a special Canadian gathering, this no-cook masterpiece will surely become a beloved favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Preparation for this delectable cheesecake begins with a mere 30 minutes of hands-on time, followed by a leisurely 4-hour chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set to perfection. With a total time of 4 hours and 30 minutes, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating each luscious bite as you embark on this culinary journey.
To embark on the creation of Alice’s Cheesecake, gather your ingredients:
- 28 graham crackers, transformed into delectable crumbs
- 5 tablespoons of butter, melted to golden perfection
- 2 packets of gelatin, ensuring a firm yet creamy texture
- 1 1/2 cups of crushed pineapple, adding a burst of tropical sweetness
- 2 cups of milk, combined with the richness of egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon of real vanilla extract, enhancing the flavor profile with its aromatic essence
- 1/2 cup of white sugar, providing just the right amount of sweetness
- 1 block of cream cheese, impeccably smooth and creamy
- 1 cup of water, to dissolve the gelatin and create the perfect consistency
- 16 maraschino cherries, adding a pop of color and sweetness to each slice
Now, let’s delve into the meticulous yet rewarding process of crafting Alice’s Cheesecake:
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Begin by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until thoroughly combined. This decadent mixture will serve as the foundation of your cheesecake, imparting a buttery richness to each bite.
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Press the graham cracker and butter mixture firmly into the base of a springform pan, ensuring an even layer across the bottom. This step lays the groundwork for the perfect crust, providing both stability and flavor.
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In a separate bowl, combine the egg yolks with the milk, whisking until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the white sugar, whisking continuously to incorporate and create a luscious custard-like mixture.
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Transfer the egg yolk and milk mixture to a double boiler, cooking gently for approximately 15 minutes until thickened and velvety. This slow and steady cooking process ensures a luxuriously smooth texture, free from any hint of graininess.
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While the egg yolk mixture is cooking, dissolve the gelatin in water, allowing it to stand until fully hydrated. Once the gelatin has softened, add it to the hot egg yolk mixture, stirring until completely incorporated. Set aside to cool slightly.
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In a separate bowl, cream the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, ensuring there are no lumps remaining. This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly creamy cheesecake filling that melts in your mouth with every bite.
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Gradually add the cooled egg yolk and gelatin mixture to the creamed cream cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy. This velvety filling will serve as the heart of your cheesecake, imparting richness and decadence in every slice.
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In another bowl, stiffly beat the egg whites until they form glossy peaks. This airy meringue will lend a light and fluffy texture to your cheesecake, elevating it to new heights of culinary perfection.
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Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring careful incorporation to maintain the airy texture. This delicate folding technique is essential for preserving the lightness of the meringue and creating a smooth, homogeneous filling.
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Add the whipped cream and real vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, folding gently until combined. This final addition imparts a luxurious creaminess and aromatic flavor, elevating your cheesecake to a truly decadent dessert experience.
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Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and halved maraschino cherries, distributing evenly throughout the filling. These fruity additions provide bursts of sweetness and flavor, complementing the creamy richness of the cheesecake filling.
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Pour the prepared cheesecake filling into the prepared springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for a pristine finish. This step marks the culmination of your culinary masterpiece, ready to be transformed into a tantalizing dessert sensation.
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Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator to chill for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing ample time for the flavors to meld and the texture to set to perfection. This slow chilling process ensures a firm yet creamy consistency, ideal for slicing and serving.
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Just before serving, sprinkle a generous layer of graham cracker crumbs over the top of the chilled cheesecake, adding a final touch of texture and flavor. This garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a delightful contrast to the creamy filling beneath.
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With eager anticipation, slice into your chilled cheesecake and marvel at the creamy richness and vibrant flavors that await. Each bite is a symphony of textures and tastes, a testament to the artistry of homemade desserts and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
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Serve your slices of Alice’s Cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of cherry compote for an extra touch of indulgence. Whether enjoyed as a decadent dessert or a sweet afternoon treat, this cheesecake is sure to captivate the hearts and taste buds of all who partake.
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Sit back, savor each blissful bite, and relish in the knowledge that you’ve created a dessert masterpiece worthy of applause. From its buttery graham cracker crust to its creamy cheesecake filling and fruity garnishes, Alice’s Cheesecake is a true celebration of flavor, texture, and culinary artistry.
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Share the joy of Alice’s Cheesecake with friends and family, and bask in the admiration and delight that accompany each indulgent slice. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a simple weeknight treat, this exquisite dessert is sure to leave a lasting impression and create cherished memories for years to come.
