Crumble vanilla cheesecake

Ingredients

Base

360 grams (12.7 ounces) all-purpose flour
140 grams (5 ounces) unsalted butter, cold
90 grams (3.2 ounces) granulated sugar
Pinch of salt

Cottage Cheese Filling

670 grams (23.6 ounces) cottage cheese (6% to 9% fat)
3 large eggs (170 grams/6 ounces)
1 egg yolk
120 grams (4.2 ounces) granulated sugar
10 grams (0.35 ounces) cornstarch
10 grams (0.35 ounces) vanilla paste or sugar with natural vanilla
Pinch of salt

Equipment

18 cm | 7-inch round baking tray
Make sure to line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
Fine sieve
This tool is essential for getting that smooth, lump-free cottage cheese filling. Don't skip this step!
Blender
A good blender helps achieve a perfectly mixed filling and crust. Opt for one with multiple speed settings.
Mixing bowls
Use sturdy, medium to large-sized bowls for mixing your ingredients. Glass or metal bowls work best.

Instructions

Step 1

Ensure all ingredients except the butter are at room temperature. Prepare an 18 cm (7 inches) round baking tray by lining the bottom with parchment paper. This will prevent the pastry from sticking and make it easier to remove from the tray.

Step 2

Press the cottage cheese through a fine sieve. Don't skip this step; it ensures a smooth texture for your filling. Add the sugar, cornstarch, vanilla paste (or vanilla sugar), salt, eggs, and egg yolk. Blend until smooth.

Step 3

In another bowl, sift the flour. Add sugar, salt, and cold, chopped butter. Using a blender, mix until the dough forms small, uniform crumbs. The dough should be soft but crumbly, forming a shape when pressed and crumbling easily with touch.

Step 4

Press ⅔ of the crust mixture into the bottom and sides of the prepared tray. Ensure it is well-pressed. Spread the cheese filling evenly over the crust, then sprinkle the remaining ⅓ of the crumbs on top.

Step 5

Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (347°F) for 45 minutes. For best results, use the convection mode on your oven.

Step 6

After baking, leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open until it cools completely. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface. Then, refrigerate for 5 to 6 hours.

Step 7

Before serving, decorate with fresh berries if desired. Bon appétit!

Servings

Your Cottage Cheese Pastry is a multi-talented star at any table ⭐. For an elegant finish, decorate it with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar. 🫐🍓 The tartness of the berries enhances the creamy filling, making every bite a mix of sweetness and a zing of fresh fruit. Serve chilled, as this brings out the flavors more robustly.

Looking to pair it with something special? Try a glass of chilled Moscato wine or a warm cup of Earl Grey tea 🍷🍵. Both pair beautifully with the richness of the pastry, creating a well-rounded flavor experience.

Hosting a brunch? 🎉 Place thin slices of your pastry alongside a luscious fruit platter and some artisanal cheeses. You'll have a spread that will make your guests feel pampered and will have them talking about your fabulous brunch for days!

Variations

Going Gluten-Free? 🌾🌟 Swap out the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour. Ensure you use one that contains xanthan gum for the best texture. The rest of the recipe remains the same, producing a scrumptious dessert that everyone can enjoy.

Making it Vegan? 🌱❤️ Replace the butter with a vegan butter spread and the cottage cheese with a blend of silken tofu and vegan cream cheese. For the eggs, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tbsp of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg). The result is a compassionate, yet equally delicious, version of this delightful treat.

Faq

Why is it important to use room temperature ingredients?
Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly, ensuring an even texture and flavor in your pastry.
Can I use a different size baking tray?
While an 18 cm tray is ideal, you can use a different size but the baking times and crust thickness may need adjustment.
How can I tell if the pastry is done?
The pastry should be golden brown on top and slightly firm to the touch. If in doubt, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
What if my cottage cheese filling is too runny?
If it's too runny, add a bit more cornstarch to help thicken it up. Ensure that the cottage cheese is well-drained before using it.
Can I prepare the pastry in advance?
Absolutely! This pastry tastes even better the next day. Store it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 5-6 hours or overnight before serving.
How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Bake the crust until it's golden brown before adding the filling. This helps to seal it and prevents it from becoming soggy.