Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup chopped dried cherries
- 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
- 1/2 cup chopped dried dates
- 1/2 cup chopped dried figs
- 1/2 cup chopped dried pineapple
- 1/2 cup chopped dried apples
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix until combined. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until combined. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, combine sour cream and heavy cream. Slowly add to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until combined.
5. Fold in the chopped nuts, dried fruit, and any other desired ingredients. Pour into the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 45 minutes or until the center is set. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F
Serving Size: 8-10
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 495
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: Coconut oil or margarine
- Cream cheese: Mascarpone cheese
- Sour cream: Greek yogurt
- Heavy cream: Coconut cream
- Nuts: Any combination of your favorite nuts
- Dried fruit: Any combination of your favorite dried fruit
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a more indulgent cheesecake
- Substitute the graham cracker crust for a shortbread crust
- Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter for a peanut butter cheesecake
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure all of your ingredients are at room temperature before beginning
- Use a light hand when folding in the nuts and dried fruit to prevent overmixing
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before serving
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
Garnishes:
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Caramel sauce
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheesecake is not setting, bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- If the cheesecake is too dry, add a few tablespoons of heavy cream.
Food Safety Advice:
- Keep cheesecake refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Discard any leftovers after 5 days.
Food History:
Cheesecake has been around since ancient Greece and is believed to have originated in the Middle East. It has been a popular dessert in many cultures for centuries.
Flavor Profiles:
This cheesecake has a rich, creamy texture with a nutty, sweet flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
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