Have you ever wondered why German cheesecakes stand out? The secret lies in the use of quark, a dairy product that adds a creamy texture without the calorie overload. In Germany, the cheesecake experience is distinctive, with quark playing a leading role in achieving that perfect balance between richness and lightness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Ideal for any occasion
Simple and beginner-friendly
Satisfies sweet cravings without the guilt
Highly customizable to suit your preferences
No hassle with beaten eggs or a heavily floured work surface
A healthier twist on the classic German Käsekuchen recipe, without compromising on taste
Ingredient Needed:
Ingredient Notes:
Lighter digestive biscuits – Choose these for a lighter German cheesecake experience, or opt for Graham crackers if you’re in the United States.
Light margarine – Melted to bind the biscuit crumbs, offering a healthier alternative to cold butter.
Eggs – Essential for setting the soft cheese filling.
Low-fat quark – The star of the show; if hard to find, consider substituting with low-fat Greek yogurt or pureed cottage cheese.
Vanilla extract – For that classic German cheesecake flavor.
Sweetener – Use a zero-calorie stevia for an almost sugar-free, authentic German touch.
Crafting the Perfect Cheesecake
Now, let’s embark on the journey of creating this delectable Slimming World Quark Cheesecake.
How To Make:
Begin by preheating your oven to 200 degrees.
Spray a 9-inch clip-release cake tin with Fry Light, ensuring both the base and sides are covered. Line it with baking paper.
Blitz the low-calorie biscuits into a fine crumb, either in a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
Transfer the biscuit crumbs to a medium bowl, add the melted margarine, and mix well.
Press the buttery biscuit mixture into the prepared tin and refrigerate while working on the cheesecake topping.
For the topping, mix all the ingredients in a large bowl until smooth, then layer it on the biscuit base.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until firm. Allow the cheesecake to cool before serving.
Substitutions and Variations
Substitutions:
Biscuits: Opt for gluten-free digestive biscuits for a gluten-free version or use almond flour for a keto-friendly alternative.
Quark: Substitute with thick Greek yogurt, farmer’s cheese, or a mixture of ricotta and sour cream. Vegan? Explore vegan quark options.
Variations:
Extra healthy: Swap biscuits for crushed Weetabix for a whole grain, high-fiber base.
Indulgence: Top with chocolate ganache and chocolate shavings for an extra touch.
Deluxe: Experiment with fresh berries, sour cherries, or fruit compote mixed with lemon juice for a delightful topping.
Equipment, Storage, and Pro Tips:
Equipment:
Weighing scales
Food processor
Measuring spoons
Saucepan
9″ round loose base cake tin
Large mixing bowl
Parchment paper
Storage:
Best enjoyed once cooled and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Freeze after cooling to room temperature, storing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Pro Tips:
If the biscuit base is challenging to press evenly, use baking paper and a rolling pin.
To prevent cracking, add cornstarch to the quark or try a water bath (bain-marie) during cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
Enhance the enjoyment of your Slimming World Quark Cheesecake with these serving ideas:
Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
Fresh fruit: Pair with fresh berries or fruit on the side for natural sweetness.
Sauces: Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce on top, and sprinkle with cocoa powder.
Nuts: Add chopped nuts or granola for some extra crunch, or indulge in Ferrero Rochers for chocolate and nut lovers!