Mary berry White Chocolate Baked Cheesecake
I. Introduction
Mary Berry, the cherished figure in British baking, has inspired countless home cooks with her approachable recipes and warm personality. As the author of over 70 books, including Mary Berry Cooks, Mary Berry’s Absolute Favourites, and Mary Berry’s Baking Bible, she has made a significant impact on British culinary traditions. Best known as a judge on the beloved The Great British Bake Off, Mary has dedicated over four decades to teaching the nation the joys of cooking.
Mary, trained at the prestigious Cordon Bleu in Paris, began her career as a magazine cookery editor before publishing her first cookbook in 1966. Renowned for her expertise in AGA cooking, she has taught masterclasses from her home alongside Lucy Young. In recognition of her contributions, she received the Guild of Food Writers Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009 and was honored with a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in 2012.
Mary Berry’s white chocolate baked cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines rich flavors and a creamy texture, making it a popular choice for gatherings and special occasions. In this recipe, we will explore its historical context, nutritional details, and even a vegan adaptation, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this decadent treat.
II. Mary Berry’s Unique Approach & Historical Context
Mary Berry highlights the significance of using quality ingredients for the best results in her recipes. The cheesecake, a cherished dessert, traces its roots back to ancient Greece, originally made with basic ingredients such as cheese and honey. Throughout the years, the recipe has transformed, adopting diverse flavors and styles from various cultures.
Mary Berry’s white chocolate baked cheesecake combines traditional techniques with her signature touch of white chocolate. The rich, creamy filling pairs beautifully with a buttery biscuit base, achieving a wonderful balance of sweetness and texture. It’s interesting to note that baked cheesecakes became popular in 19th-century America, eventually becoming a dessert staple around the globe.
III. Notices on Ingredients & Equipment
Ingredients:
- For the Base:
- 200g digestive biscuits
- 100g unsalted butter, melted
- For the Filling:
- 300g cream cheese, softened
- 150g white chocolate, melted
- 100g caster sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 200ml double cream
Equipment:
- 23cm springform cake tin
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Baking paper
- Saucepan for melting chocolate
- Cooling rack
IV. Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
Crush the 200g of digestive biscuits into fine crumbs.
After this, In a bowl, mix the crumbs with 100g of melted unsalted butter until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the base of a 23cm springform cake tin.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat together 300g of softened cream cheese and 100g of caster sugar using an electric mixer until smooth.
Add 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the 150g of melted white chocolate until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared biscuit base in the springform tin.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an hour to cool slowly.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
After this, Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Before serving, whip 200ml of double cream until soft peaks form and spread it over the cheesecake.
Slice and enjoy!
V. Flavor Profile & Nutritional Information
The white chocolate baked cheesecake offers a rich, creamy flavor with a sweet, buttery crust. The white chocolate adds a luxurious sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tang of cream cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 15g
VI. Tips for a Perfect White Chocolate Baked Cheesecake
- Troubleshooting: If the cheesecake cracks during baking, try baking it at a lower temperature or adding a water bath for moisture.
- Flavor Enhancement: Use high-quality white chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Variations: Consider adding citrus zest for a refreshing twist or swirling in fruit puree for added color and flavor.
VII. Alternative (Vegan and Non-Vegan)
Vegan Adaptation:
- Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese.
- Replace eggs with a mixture of 6 tablespoons of flaxseed meal and 9 tablespoons of water (flax eggs).
- Use dairy-free white chocolate.
Vegan Recipe Instructions:
- Prepare the base as above using vegan butter.
- For the filling, mix vegan cream cheese with sugar, flax eggs, and melted vegan white chocolate.
- Bake as directed above.
VIII. Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a berry coulis or fresh fruit on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Consider adding chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.
IX. Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to approximately 5 days. This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating.
X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use a different type of chocolate?
- Yes, you can use milk or dark chocolate, but it will change the flavor profile.
- Can I freeze the cheesecake?
- Yes, the cheesecake can be frozen. Just make sure to wrap it tightly and thaw it in the fridge before serving.
XI. Conclusion & Call to Action
This white chocolate baked cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert that features a creamy texture and delightful flavors. We invite you to try this recipe and share your thoughts after making it. Be sure to check out our website for more delicious recipes!
XII. Additional Resources (Optional)
For further culinary inspiration, visit Mary Berry’s official website here and check out other reputable sources at Culinary Hill.
Indulge in the deliciousness of Mary Berry’s white chocolate baked cheesecake and create lasting memories around the dining table!
