Ingredients

Bento Cheesecake

120 grams (4.23 ounces) shortbread cookies
55 grams (1.94 ounces) butter
300 grams (10.58 ounces) cream cheese
85 grams (2.99 ounces) sugar
7 grams (0.25 ounces) starch
0.25 teaspoons salt
0.5 tablespoons (7.39 milliliters) lemon juice
0.5 lemon zest (from 1/2 lemon)
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
50 milliliters (1.69 fluid ounces) milk
50 grams (1.76 ounces) raspberries or other berries
Berries for decorating (as desired)
We recommend:
For shortbread cookies:
Prime Walker’s All-Butter Mini Scottie Dog Shaped Shortbread - 51-Count Carton - Authentic Shortbread Cookies from Scotland
4.6
(9,143) Walker’s All-Butter Mini Scottie Dog Shaped Shortbread - 51-Count Carton - Authentic Shortbread Cookies from Scotland $6.49 View details
For butter unsalted:
Generic Land-Unsalted Butter, 3 pk/1 lb. (12 Sticks)
5
(1) Generic Land-Unsalted Butter, 3 pk/1 lb. (12 Sticks) $49.00 View details
For cream cheese:
Prime Daiya Dairy Free Gluten Free Chocolate Vegan Frozen Cheesecake, 14.1 Ounce (Pack of 8)
5
(4) Daiya Dairy Free Gluten Free Chocolate Vegan Frozen Cheesecake, 14.1 Ounce (Pack of 8) $107.26 View details Prime Betty Crocker Favorites Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix, 13.25 oz (Pack of 12)
4.7
(13,623) Betty Crocker Favorites Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix, 13.25 oz (Pack of 12) $23.04 View details LorAnn Lemon Bakery Emulsion, 4 ounce bottle (Pack of 2)
4.4
(11,950) LorAnn Lemon Bakery Emulsion, 4 ounce bottle (Pack of 2) $16.98 View details
For granulated sugar:
Prime best seller Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1
4.8
(12,536) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1 $5.27 View details Prime Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack)
4.8
(18,788) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack) $3.74 $4.14 View details Prime C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags
4.6
(205) C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags $56.99 $49.98 View details
For cornstarch:
Argo Corn Starch 50 Pound -- 1 Each
4.5
(21) Argo Corn Starch 50 Pound -- 1 Each $112.67 View details
For lemon juice:
Prime Volcano Bursts Organic Italian Lemon Juice, 33.8 oz (6 Pack)
4.5
(430) Volcano Bursts Organic Italian Lemon Juice, 33.8 oz (6 Pack) $66.99 View details Prime Realemon 100% Lemon Juice, 2.5 oz
4.7
(11,255) Realemon 100% Lemon Juice, 2.5 oz $4.01 View details Prime best seller TRUE LEMON Water Enhancer, Bulk Dispenser, 100 Count (Pack of 1), 0 Calorie Drink Mix Packets For Water, Sugar Free Lemon Flavoring Powder Packets
4.6
(67,501) TRUE LEMON Water Enhancer, Bulk Dispenser, 100 Count (Pack of 1), 0 Calorie Drink Mix Packets For Water, Sugar Free Lemon Flavoring Powder Packets $6.93 View details
For lemon zest:
Prime Lorann Oils Lemon Bakery Emulsion: Tangy Lemon Essence, Perfect for Amplifying Citrus Tones in Cakes, Cookies & Desserts, Gluten-Free, Keto-Friendly, Lemon Extract Alternative Essential
4.5
(18,701) Lorann Oils Lemon Bakery Emulsion: Tangy Lemon Essence, Perfect for Amplifying Citrus Tones in Cakes, Cookies & Desserts, Gluten-Free, Keto-Friendly, Lemon Extract Alternative Essential $20.00 $23.99 View details Prime Earthborn Elements Lemon Peel Granules, 1 Gallon Bucket, Pure & Natural, Food Grade
4.7
(8) Earthborn Elements Lemon Peel Granules, 1 Gallon Bucket, Pure & Natural, Food Grade $49.99 View details Prime SPICE HUNTER LEMON PEEL GRATED
4.7
(7,110) SPICE HUNTER LEMON PEEL GRATED $7.49 View details
For whole milk:
Prime Prairie Farms Whole Milk - Shelf Stable, Boxed UHT Ultra Pasteurized Milk, Vitamin D White Milk - Preservative and Hormone Free - 1 Quart (12 Pack)
5
(7) Prairie Farms Whole Milk - Shelf Stable, Boxed UHT Ultra Pasteurized Milk, Vitamin D White Milk - Preservative and Hormone Free - 1 Quart (12 Pack) $80.99 View details Prime Heilala Vanilla Paste Range (2.29 oz (Alcohol Free))
4.4
(11,397) Heilala Vanilla Paste Range (2.29 oz (Alcohol Free)) $15.97 View details
For fresh raspberries:
Prime best seller Nature’s Bakery Whole Wheat Fig Bars, Raspberry, Real Fruit, Vegan, Non-GMO, Snack bar, 6 Count (Pack of 6)
4.7
(49,795) Nature’s Bakery Whole Wheat Fig Bars, Raspberry, Real Fruit, Vegan, Non-GMO, Snack bar, 6 Count (Pack of 6) $22.74 View details Nature's Bakery Blueberry Fig Bars, 2 Oz, 6 Ct
4.7
(8,007) Nature's Bakery Blueberry Fig Bars, 2 Oz, 6 Ct $5.69 View details
For fresh berries:
Prime A Gift Inside The Original Love Berries Dipped Strawberries - 12 Berries
4.5
(7,126) A Gift Inside The Original Love Berries Dipped Strawberries - 12 Berries $39.97 View details Prime Dried Blueberries Sweetened (4 lb bulk box) - 100% Domestic, All Natural, Kosher Certified, Gluten Free, and GMO Free, No Additives - Great Source of Antioxidants
5
(3) Dried Blueberries Sweetened (4 lb bulk box) - 100% Domestic, All Natural, Kosher Certified, Gluten Free, and GMO Free, No Additives - Great Source of Antioxidants $49.99 View details best seller Old Fashion Claxton Fruit Cake 3-1 Lb. Regular Recipe Loaves - Individually Wrapped For Freshness in our Signature Red-White Carton - 3-pack
4.6
(8,316) Old Fashion Claxton Fruit Cake 3-1 Lb. Regular Recipe Loaves - Individually Wrapped For Freshness in our Signature Red-White Carton - 3-pack $24.95 View details

Instructions

Step 1

1. Grind the shortbread cookies into fine crumbs using a blender. Melt the butter, and let it cool slightly before mixing with the crumbs to form a cohesive mixture. To keep life simpler, use store-bought shortbread cookies.

Step 2

2. Press the crumb mixture into a mold (12-13 cm diameter), using a glass to firmly form the sides and bottom. Place the mold in the freezer for 15 minutes to set. Chilling the base helps it hold up better when you pour in the filling.

Step 3

3. For the cheese layer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the sugar, starch, lemon zest, and salt, mixing until well combined. Room temperature cream cheese is easier to work with.

Step 4

4. Add the egg and mix well, followed by adding the egg yolk and mixing until thoroughly combined. Combining eggs one at a time prevents the mixture from curdling.

Step 5

5. Finally, add the milk and lemon juice, mixing everything until well blended. Make sure everything is mixed evenly to avoid lumps.

Step 6

6. Pour half of the cheese mixture into the prepared mold. Scatter the raspberries or other berries on top, then pour in the rest of the cheese mixture. Distributing the berries evenly ensures each slice gets a fruity twist.

Step 7

7. Preheat your oven to 250F (120C). Bake the cheesecake for 45 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Low and slow baking gives the cheesecake a nice, creamy texture.

Step 8

8. Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature in the mold. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least a few hours or overnight. Carefully run a knife around the edges of the mold before removing the cheesecake. Cooling gradually prevents cracks from forming.

Step 9

9. Decorate with fresh berries before serving. Using fresh, bright berries for decoration not only makes the cheesecake look appealing but also adds a fresh flavor.

Servings

Serving up this Bento cheesecake can be as fun and creative as the dessert itself. 🎉 For a charming touch, serve each slice with a handful of fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. 🍓

If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can add a dollop of whipped cream with a drizzle of berry coulis on top. 🍰 Your guests will be thrilled! 💕 Another great idea is to pair it with a cup of hot coffee or a refreshing iced tea.

Remember, visual appeal matters too! You could elegantly *arrange* edible flowers around the plate for that Instagram-worthy snap. 🌺🌸 Indulge in these delightful slices on picnics, weekend brunches, or as a special treat after dinner. 🎊 Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!

Equipment

Blender

Use a high-quality blender to grind the shortbread cookies into fine crumbs easily.

We recommend:
Prime Ninja BL660 Professional Compact Smoothie & Food Processing Blender, 1100-Watts, 3 Functions -for Frozen Drinks, Smoothies, Sauces, & More, 72-oz.* Pitcher, (2) 16-oz. To-Go Cups & Spout Lids, Gray
4.7
(102,420) Ninja BL660 Professional Compact Smoothie & Food Processing Blender, 1100-Watts, 3 Functions -for Frozen Drinks, Smoothies, Sauces, & More, 72-oz.* Pitcher, (2) 16-oz. To-Go Cups & Spout Lids, Gray $99.99 $119.99 View details Prime Ninja Fit Compact Personal Blender, Portable Blender for-Smoothies, Shakes, Food Prep, and Frozen Blending, 700-Watt Base, (2) 16-oz. Cups and Spout Lids, Black QB3001SS
4.7
(38,140) Ninja Fit Compact Personal Blender, Portable Blender for-Smoothies, Shakes, Food Prep, and Frozen Blending, 700-Watt Base, (2) 16-oz. Cups and Spout Lids, Black QB3001SS $49.99 $69.99 View details Prime best seller Magic Bullet Blender, Small, Silver, 11 Piece Set
4.4
(109,298) Magic Bullet Blender, Small, Silver, 11 Piece Set $39.88 $49.99 View details
Mixing Bowls

Have separate mixing bowls handy for the different stages; it's always easier to keep ingredients organized this way!

We recommend:
Prime Umite Chef Mixing Bowls with Airtight Lids, 6 piece Stainless Steel Metal Nesting Storage Bowls, Non-Slip Bottoms Size 7, 3.5, 2.5, 2.0,1.5, 1QT, Great for Mixing & Serving (Khaki)
4.6
(27,811) Umite Chef Mixing Bowls with Airtight Lids, 6 piece Stainless Steel Metal Nesting Storage Bowls, Non-Slip Bottoms Size 7, 3.5, 2.5, 2.0,1.5, 1QT, Great for Mixing & Serving (Khaki) $32.28 $37.99 View details
Springform Pan (12-13cm)

The right pan helps in achieving the perfect cheesecake shape, and it's easier to demold.

We recommend:
Prime best seller HIWARE Springform Pan Set of 3 Non-stick Cheesecake Pan, Leakproof Round Cake Pan Set Includes 3 Pieces 6" 8" 10" Springform Pans with 150 Pcs Parchment Paper Liners
4.6
(37,491) HIWARE Springform Pan Set of 3 Non-stick Cheesecake Pan, Leakproof Round Cake Pan Set Includes 3 Pieces 6" 8" 10" Springform Pans with 150 Pcs Parchment Paper Liners $23.99 $29.00 View details Prime Nordic Ware Pan Springform, 9 Inch, Charcoal
4.6
(5,354) Nordic Ware Pan Springform, 9 Inch, Charcoal $17.00 $20.20 View details Prime 4Pcs Springform Pan (4inch, 5inch, 6inch, 7inch), Non-stick Cake Tin for Baking, Detachable Bottom Carbon Steel Cheesecake Mold Deep Dish Pans Round Cake Molds(Black)
5
(1) 4Pcs Springform Pan (4inch, 5inch, 6inch, 7inch), Non-stick Cake Tin for Baking, Detachable Bottom Carbon Steel Cheesecake Mold Deep Dish Pans Round Cake Molds(Black) $22.99 View details
Measuring Cups & Spoons

Precision is key in baking! Accurate measurements ensure your cheesecake comes out just right.

We recommend:
Prime OXO Good Grips 2-Cup Squeeze & Pour Silicone Measuring Cup with Stay-Cool Patternt, Clear
4.8
(13,671) OXO Good Grips 2-Cup Squeeze & Pour Silicone Measuring Cup with Stay-Cool Patternt, Clear $16.00 View details
Oven Thermometer

Double-check your oven's temperature to ensure it’s at a perfect 250F (120C).

We recommend:
Prime CHEF iQ Sense Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer with 3 Ultra-Thin Probes, Unlimited Range Bluetooth Meat Thermometer, Digital Food Thermometer for Remote Monitoring of BBQ Grill, Oven
4.3
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4.6
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Cooling Rack

A cooling rack helps in bringing the cheesecake to room temperature evenly.

We recommend:
Prime KITCHENATICS 4-Tier Stackable Cooling Racks for Baking, 100% Stainless Steel Wire Rack, Oven Safe Baking Rack, Oven Rack for Pizza, Cake, Bread, Cooling Rack for Cooking and Baking, Cookie Rack 15x10
4.7
(12,155) KITCHENATICS 4-Tier Stackable Cooling Racks for Baking, 100% Stainless Steel Wire Rack, Oven Safe Baking Rack, Oven Rack for Pizza, Cake, Bread, Cooling Rack for Cooking and Baking, Cookie Rack 15x10 $31.98 $45.98 View details Prime Ultra Cuisine Heavy Duty Cooling Rack for Cooking and Baking - 100% Stainless Steel Baking Rack & Wire Cooling Rack - Cookie Cooling Racks for Baking - Food Safe - Fits Half Sheet Pans - 11.5" x 16.5"
4.7
(14,959) Ultra Cuisine Heavy Duty Cooling Rack for Cooking and Baking - 100% Stainless Steel Baking Rack & Wire Cooling Rack - Cookie Cooling Racks for Baking - Food Safe - Fits Half Sheet Pans - 11.5" x 16.5" $21.99 $34.99 View details Prime Spring Chef Cooling Rack & Baking Rack - 100% Stainless Steel Cookie Cooling Racks, Wire Rack for Baking, Oven Safe 10 x 15 Inches Fits Jelly Roll Pan - Cooling Racks for Cooking and Baking, Set of 2
4.7
(9,167) Spring Chef Cooling Rack & Baking Rack - 100% Stainless Steel Cookie Cooling Racks, Wire Rack for Baking, Oven Safe 10 x 15 Inches Fits Jelly Roll Pan - Cooling Racks for Cooking and Baking, Set of 2 $24.99 View details

Variations

For those who have dietary preferences or restrictions, here are some *tasty* alternatives to our Bento cheesecake:

Gluten-Free Version: Replace the shortbread cookies with gluten-free cookies. Ensure all other ingredients like starch are also certified gluten-free!

Vegan Version: Use vegan butter instead of dairy butter, and replace the cream cheese with a plant-based version. Substitute **eggs** with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and regular milk with almond or soy milk. 🌱✨

Faq

  • Why is my cheesecake cracking in the oven?

    Cracks often happen due to overbaking or sudden temperature changes. Bake at the recommended low temperature and allow it to cool gradually at room temperature.

  • Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

    Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture.

  • Is there a specific type of cream cheese I should use?

    Using a full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor. Avoid low-fat or spreadable versions.

  • How do I prevent a soggy crust?

    Ensure the butter and cookie mixture is well-blended, and firmly press it into the pan. Freezing the crust helps to set it firmly before adding the cheesecake mixture.

  • How do you know when the cheesecake is truly done?

    The edges should be set with the center slightly jiggly. Overbaking can lead to dryness and cracks.

  • Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

    Absolutely! 🍰 Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. It usually tastes even better after setting overnight!

Nutrition facts

Berries and lemon bento cheesecake
Recipe Yield:1 small cheesecake (serves 4-6)
Calories:2200-2400 kcal per whole cheesecake
Calories (Min - Max):2200 - 2400
Total Fat:165 grams
Saturated Fat:95 grams
Protein:35 grams
Total Carbohydrate:150 grams
Total Sugars:115 grams