Pin Embrace the spirit of the holidays with this Christmas Cheesecake Slab, a delightful dessert that combines a velvety spiced filling with a buttery, crunchy base. Infused with the warm aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, and studded with a medley of tangy dried fruits, this slab is as festive as it is delicious. Perfectly portioned into squares and topped with soft whipped cream, it is designed for sharing with loved ones during seasonal celebrations.
Pin This recipe offers a sophisticated twist on the classic British cheesecake, utilizing a shallow baking tray to ensure even baking and easy slicing. Whether you are hosting a festive party or looking for a special family treat, this dessert delivers a beautiful presentation with minimal fuss, making it a reliable addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 300 g digestive biscuits
- 120 g unsalted butter, melted
- 600 g cream cheese, at room temperature
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 150 ml sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 120 g mixed dried fruits (cranberries, apricots, cherries), chopped
- 2 tsp mixed spice (1 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, ½ tsp ground ginger)
- 200 ml double cream
- 2 tbsp icing sugar, plus extra for dusting
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a 20 x 30 cm rectangular baking tray with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2: Biscuit Base
- In a food processor, blitz the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs. Transfer to a mixing bowl and stir in the melted butter until it resembles wet sand.
- Step 3: Form the Crust
- Press the mixture firmly into the base of the prepared tray. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- Step 4: Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat the room-temperature cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth, then gradually add the sugar and beat until combined.
- Step 5: Incorporate Liquids
- Add the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Beat until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Step 6: Fold in Flavors
- Fold in the chopped dried fruits and mixed spice gently to ensure even distribution.
- Step 7: Assemble
- Pour the batter over the chilled base and smooth the surface. Tap the tray gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Step 8: Bake
- Bake for 45–50 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly. Cover with foil if it browns too quickly.
- Step 9: Gradual Cooling
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour. Remove and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Step 10: Set
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until fully set.
- Step 11: Whipped Topping
- Whisk the double cream with 2 tbsp icing sugar until soft peaks form.
- Step 12: Final Garnish
- Slice into squares and top each with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of icing sugar.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve a professional finish, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps. Leaving the cheesecake to cool inside the turned-off oven for an hour is a crucial step that helps prevent the surface from cracking due to sudden temperature changes.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize the flavor profile by swapping the dried fruits for fresh seasonal berries or festive candied peel. For those who prefer a more intense spice, consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the cheesecake batter before baking.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these elegant cheesecake squares on a festive platter for a stunning holiday spread. They pair beautifully with a chilled glass of sweet dessert wine or a hot cup of spiced tea, making them a versatile choice for both afternoon tea and formal dinners.
Pin With its warm spices and creamy texture, this Christmas Cheesecake Slab is certain to become a new holiday tradition. Enjoy the process of creating this festive centerpiece and the joy of sharing it with your friends and family.
Recipe FAQ
- → What kind of baking tray is best for this cheesecake slab?
This recipe is designed for a 20 x 30 cm (8 x 12 inch) rectangular baking tray, which helps create the 'slab' shape. Lining it with parchment paper and leaving an overhang makes it easy to lift the entire cheesecake out for slicing.
- → Can I substitute the dried fruits?
Absolutely! While the mixed dried fruits add a festive touch, you can easily swap them for other ingredients. Fresh berries or festive candied peel are excellent alternatives, as mentioned in the recipe notes.
- → What's the best way to prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
To minimize cracking, avoid over-beating the cream cheese mixture once eggs are added, as this can incorporate too much air. Also, ensure a gradual cooling process: turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour before transferring it to room temperature, then chilling.
- → How far in advance can I prepare this dessert?
This cheesecake is perfect for making ahead! It requires at least 4 hours of chilling (preferably overnight) to set properly. You can prepare the entire slab 1-2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving.
- → Can this Christmas cheesecake be frozen?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! For best results, slice the cheesecake into individual squares. Wrap each square tightly in parchment paper, then in plastic wrap, and store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- → What is 'mixed spice' and can I make my own?
'Mixed spice' is a traditional British blend, typically including cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, along with allspice and cloves. The recipe specifies 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, and ½ tsp ground ginger, so you can easily combine these if you don't have a pre-made mix. You can also add a pinch of ground cloves for extra warmth.