Cuisine:International (with Eastern European influences)
Ingredients
Basic Ingredients:
2 cups cottage cheese (or ricotta, blended until smooth)
3 large eggs (room temperature)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (or your preferred sweetener)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Ingredients for Flavor Variations:
Zest of 1 lemon or orange (for a citrusy kick)
1/4 cup raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts (for texture)
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg (for warmth)
For the Crust (Optional):
1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers (or digestive biscuits)
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for sweetness)
Toppings (Optional):
Fresh fruits (e.g., strawberries, blueberries)
Fruit compote or jam
Whipped cream
Honey or caramel drizzle
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Grease a springform pan (8-9 inches) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
If making a crust, mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of the pan and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
2. Blend the Cottage Cheese
Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. This step ensures a creamy texture for your cake.
3. Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the blended cottage cheese, vanilla extract, flour, sour cream (if using), and salt. Mix until well combined.
For variations, fold in optional ingredients like zest, raisins, or chocolate chips gently to avoid deflating the batter.
4. Assemble the Cake
Pour the batter over the prepared crust (if using). If skipping the crust, pour it directly into the greased pan.
Smooth the surface with a spatula for an even bake.
5. Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
To prevent cracks, consider using a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger baking dish filled with hot water.
6. Cool and Chill
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature in the pan.
Once cooled, refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the cake from the pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
Top with your choice of fresh fruits, compote, or whipped cream.
Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your cottage cheese cake as a delicious dessert or snack!
