No Bake Cheesecake (Blueberry, Dulce de Leche, and Dulce de Leche Cheesecake)

Cheesecake, with its origins traced back to ancient Greece, has a fascinating culinary history that spans centuries and civilizations. 🍰 Initially a simple combination of cheese, wheat flour, and honey, the recipe evolved through ancient Rome's addition of eggs for a creamier texture. After a period of decline, it resurged during the Renaissance in Europe and made its way to America, where cream cheese was later introduced in the late 19th century. The iconic graham cracker crust and the development of New York-style cheesecake solidified its place in American dessert culture in the 20th century. 🧀 Today, cheesecake is a global delight, celebrated in diverse variations and flavors, showcasing a harmonious blend of ancient traditions and modern creativity.



NUTRITION FACTS (approximately per serving):

Serving Size: 1 slice

Calories: 350 kcal

Total Fat: 22g

Saturated Fat: 12g

Cholesterol: 65mg

Sodium: 200mg

Total Carbohydrates: 32g

Dietary Fiber: 1g

Sugars: 20g

Protein: 6g


Prep Time: 30 minutes (for crust and cheesecake preparation)

Refrigeration Time: Overnight or at least 4 hours

Assembly Time: 15 minutes (toppings and final touches)

Servings: 4-6


Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Additionally, the nutrition facts can change if you adjust the recipe or serving size. Be sure to check product labels and use a nutrition calculator for precise values, especially if you have specific dietary requirements or restrictions.


INGREDIENTS: 

Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups Graham crackers (crushed)

  • 2 tablespoons Sugar (optional)

  • 6 tablespoons Butter (melted)

Cheesecake: 

  • 2 cups or 450 grams Cream cheese (softened)

  • 1 cup All-purpose cream 

  • 1 can (374g) Condensed milk 

  • 1 tablespoon Gelatine or gulaman powder 

  • 4 tablespoons Water

Toppings:

  • Canned blueberry

  • Canned cherries

  • Dulce de leche

  • Mini dark chocolates

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Crust:

  • In a bowl, combine graham crushed cracker, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

  • Transfer the crust into the tub or tin can mold.

  • Flatten the crust and set aside. Press the crust firmly for a solid base.


Step 2: Cream Cheese Batter

  • Beat the softened cream cheese until foamy.

  • Add condensed milk and blend until smooth.

  • Gradually add the all-purpose cream and blend until very smooth; few lumps are okay.

  • Scrape the bottom of the bowl to ensure thorough mixing.


Step 3: Gelatin Preparation

  • In a separate bowl, combine gelatin or gulaman powder with 2 tablespoons of warm water; mix until dissolved.

  • Add 2 tablespoons of hot water to the gelatin or gulaman mixture and mix until fully incorporated.


Step 4: Incorporating Gelatin into Cream Cheese Batter

  • Add the gelatin mixture into the cream cheese batter immediately and mix until fully incorporated.


Step 5: Setting the Cheesecake

  • Pour the cream cheese mixture into the tub; the amount varies depending on preference.

  • Spread the mixture evenly using a spatula or spoon.

  • Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours.


Step 6: Assembly

  • For Blueberry Cheesecake: Spread canned blueberries on top and spread evenly.

  • For Dulce de Leche: Spread dulce de leche on top and spread evenly and sprinkle dark chocolate chips.

  • For Black Forest: Spread cherries in the center, leaving about an inch on each side for chocolate curls/shavings.

    • Using a peeler, shave chocolate from a chocolate bar and use the shavings to cover the sides.

  • Additional Flavor Tips:

    • For a chocolate cheesecake, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder.

    • For a green tea cheesecake, add 2 tablespoons of matcha powder.

TIPS:

  • Perfect Crust:

    • Press the crust firmly for a solid base.

    • Consider lining a springform pan with parchment paper.

  • Cream Cheese Consistency:

    • Soften cream cheese at room temperature for a smoother texture.

    • Use a mixer for a lump-free filling.

  • Gelatin Handling:

    • Work quickly when adding gelatin to prevent premature setting.

    • Consider agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative.

  • Setting Time:

    • Chill for recommended time; overnight for optimal results.

  • Topping Variety:

    • Experiment with fresh fruits, nuts, or different chocolates.

    • Try flavored syrups for extra decadence.

  • Flavor Variations:

    • Add extracts like vanilla or citrus zest for unique flavors.

  • Decoration Tips:

    • Peel room temperature chocolate for the Black Forest spiral.

    • Garnish with mint leaves or edible flowers.

  • Portion Control:

    • Dip the knife in hot water for cleaner cuts.

  • Storage Tips:

    • Refrigerate leftovers; freeze for extended storage.



Serve & Enjoy! 💖 

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