Tiramisu Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients:

Crust:

• 1 ½ cups crushed ladyfinger cookies (savoiardi)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup espresso or strong coffee, cooled

Topping:

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a bowl, combine crushed ladyfingers, melted butter, and cocoa powder.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
   • Blend in sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and espresso. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake:
   • Pour the filling over the prepared crust. Use a spatula to even out the surface.
5. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan (water bath method).
   • Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set.
6. Cool and Chill:
   • Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
   • Transfer the cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:
   • In a bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
8. Serve:
   • Remove the cheesecake from the pan. Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top and dust generously with cocoa powder. Slice and enjoy!

Nutritional Value (Per Slice, 1/12 of Cheesecake):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Sugar: 19g
• Fiber: 1g
• Calcium: 80mg
• Sodium: 180mg

Health Benefits of Tiramisu Cheesecake:

1. Rich in Calcium and Protein:
   Cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream provide essential calcium for bone health and high-quality protein for muscle repair.
2. Mood-Boosting Coffee:
   The espresso in the filling offers a mild caffeine boost, improving alertness and mood. Coffee is also known to contain antioxidants that combat inflammation.
3. Balanced Energy from Carbs and Fats:
   With carbs from ladyfingers and fats from cream cheese, this cheesecake offers sustained energy, making it an ideal dessert for special occasions.
4. Water Bath Baking for Improved Digestibility:
   The water bath technique helps maintain a creamy texture, making it easier to digest than dense baked goods.
5. Moderation Supports Mindful Eating:
   While rich and indulgent, enjoying a small slice of Tiramisu Cheesecake mindfully allows you to savor the flavors without overconsumption.
6. Customizable for Health-Conscious Versions:
   For a lighter version, swap part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt and reduce the sugar slightly without compromising flavor.

Conclusion:

Tiramisu Cheesecake combines the best of two classic desserts into a luxurious treat. With its velvety texture, coffee-flavored filling, and light cocoa topping, it’s perfect for celebrations or weekend indulgence. This recipe offers not only a delicious experience but also healthful elements like calcium, protein, and antioxidants. Enjoy in moderation to maintain a balanced lifestyle.