Sernik (Polish Cheesecake)

Pregătirea ingredientelor

Ingrediente

Mod de preparare

Pas cu pas

1. 1

   For the crust, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar in a large bowl.

2. 2

   Cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter using your fingertips or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

   Aproximativ 3 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting too much.

3. 3

   Add the egg yolk and cold water, then knead briefly until a cohesive dough forms.

   Aproximativ 2 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Do not overmix; just bring the dough together.

4. 4

   Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

   Aproximativ 30 min.

5. 5

   Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and flour a 23cm (9-inch) springform pan.

   Aproximativ 10 min.

6. 6

   Remove the dough from the refrigerator and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan.

   Aproximativ 5 min.

   Nota bucătarului: You can roll it out between two sheets of parchment paper if preferred, then transfer it to the pan.

7. 7

   Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.

   Aproximativ 15 min.

8. 8

   For the filling, separate the large eggs. In a large bowl, combine the farmer cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and potato starch.

   Aproximativ 5 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Ensure the farmer cheese is very smooth for the best texture.

9. 9

   Stir in the melted and cooled unsalted butter until well combined.

   Aproximativ 1 min.

10. 10

    In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.

    Aproximativ 3 min.

    Nota bucătarului: Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely grease-free.

11. 11

    Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cheese mixture until just incorporated.

    Aproximativ 2 min.

    Nota bucătarului: Folding gently helps to maintain the airy texture of the cheesecake.

12. 12

    Pour the cheese filling over the partially baked crust in the springform pan.

    Aproximativ 1 min.

13. 13

    Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden, but the center still has a slight jiggle.

    Aproximativ 1 oră

    Nota bucătarului: Avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking.

14. 14

    Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 30 minutes to cool gradually.

    Aproximativ 30 min.

    Nota bucătarului: This helps prevent cracking.

15. 15

    Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

    Aproximativ 1 oră

16. 16

    Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.

    Aproximativ 4 ore

    Nota bucătarului: Chilling is crucial for the cheesecake to set properly and develop its full flavor.