Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

About Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake is an exquisite dessert that combines the rich and creamy texture of traditional Basque cheesecake with the vibrant flavors of strawberry and matcha. This unique twist on the classic dessert not only adds appealing aesthetics but also offers a delightful dance of flavor on the palate. The cheesecake is characterized by its slightly burnt top, which gives a charred taste as it complements the sweet strawberry and earthy matcha tones.

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What You’ll Need for Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

Complete Ingredients List

1. 2 cups (500g) cream cheese, softened
2. 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
3. 3 large eggs
4. 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6. 1 tablespoon matcha powder
7. 1 cup (250g) fresh strawberries, puréed
8. 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
9. A pinch of salt

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Cream Cheese Alternatives: Use non-dairy cream cheese for a vegan version.
• Sugar Alternatives: Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar-free alternative suitable for baking.
• Heavy Cream Alternatives: Use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend.
• Flavor Variations: For a twist, consider adding a mix of citrus zest (like lemon or orange) or incorporating a layer of chocolate ganache for a richer flavor profile.

How to Make Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

Step 1: Preparing the Cheesecake Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and free of lumps. This process helps ensure a velvety texture for your cheesecake, so take your time with this step!

Step 2: Adding Wet Ingredients

Once the cream cheese and sugar are well combined, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Next, gradually pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the batter is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could incorporate too much air into the batter, causing the cheesecake to crack during baking.

Step 3: Incorporating Flavor Elements

In a separate small bowl, combine the matcha powder with a tablespoon of warm water to create a smooth paste. Add this paste to the cheesecake mixture and blend until fully incorporated and the color is uniform. Following that, add the strawberry purée to the batter and gently fold it in using a spatula, creating a beautiful marbled effect.

Step 4: Baking the Cheesecake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the top. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden-brown and the center is slightly jiggly but set. Remember that the cheesecake will continue to firm up as it cools down. Once baked, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

How to Serve Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, gently peeling away the parchment paper for a clean edge. For a neat presentation, use a sharp knife that has been dipped in hot water and wiped clean to slice the cheesecake into wedges.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

Top your cheesecake with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for added sweetness and color. A sprinkle of matcha powder over each slice adds an elegant touch, while a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the overall flavor profile. For a nutty crunch, consider adding toasted pistachios or almonds as a garnish.

Storing & Preserving Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

Best Storage Methods

Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other odors. It can stay fresh for about 4-5 days in the fridge. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container — this way, they can last for up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

If you choose to freeze the cheesecake, thaw it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before serving. Avoid reheating as the texture may change; this cheesecake is best enjoyed cold!

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

1. Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter as it can lead to a dense texture.
2. Incorrect Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated accurately. An oven thermometer can help check the temperature precision.
3. Skipping Cooling Time: Letting the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating is crucial to achieving the ideal texture.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Water Bath Method: For additional moisture and to prevent cracks, some bakers prefer a water bath during baking. This can be done by placing the cheesecake pan into a larger pan filled with hot water.
• Make Flavors Pop: Consider adding a splash of lemon juice to heighten the flavors in your batter.

Fun Variations of Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Experiment with adding different fruit purées like raspberry or mango to bring new flavors to the cheesecake. For chocolate lovers, swirl in some melted dark chocolate or add cocoa powder to part of the batter to create a marbled chocolate matcha cheesecake.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

To make this cheesecake vegan, replace the cream cheese with cashew cream and use flaxseed eggs as a binder. For a sugar-free version, substitute with erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to keep the sweetness without the calories.

FAQs

What If My Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your cheesecake turns out to be too dry, it might be because of overbaking. Make sure to keep an eye on it and remember that it will continue to set as it cools. If the center is not setting, it may need more baking time, so ensure the jiggle is ever-so-slightly before removing from the oven.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! Strawberry Matcha Basque Cheesecake can be prepared a day in advance. Just ensure you wrap it well once cooled to keep it fresh in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for a future dessert, thawing it overnight in the fridge before serving.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

Common swaps include using vegan cream cheese for dairy-free versions, coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar, and various gluten-free flours for those with gluten sensitivities. Be creative with your flavor choices by experimenting with different fruit purées or extracts!

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