Certainly! Here’s a delicious recipe for Italian Ricotta Cheesecake with Fresh Berries:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of one lemon
- Zest of one orange
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 tablespoons apricot jam (optional, for glaze)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Prepare the Crust:
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating an even crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow it to cool while preparing the filling.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, blend ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract, lemon zest, and orange zest.
- Gradually add the flour and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until the center is set, and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Garnish with Fresh Berries:
- Prior to serving, arrange a variety of fresh berries on top of the chilled cheesecake.
- If desired, heat apricot jam in a small saucepan until melted and brush it over the berries for a glossy finish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Release the springform pan, slice the cheesecake, and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy richness of the ricotta cheesecake paired with the freshness of the berries!
This Italian Ricotta Cheesecake with Fresh Berries is a delightful and elegant dessert, perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving a luscious treat.
