Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 medium-sized ripe pears, peeled and sliced
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Knife
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add one egg at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the honey, sour cream, and remaining eggs. Mix until well combined.
6. Arrange the sliced pears on top of the crust. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pears.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
8. Let the cake cool to room temperature before removing it from the pan.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Serving size:
This recipe makes one 9-inch cake, serving 8-10 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 315
Total fat: 17g
Saturated fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 135mg
Total carbohydrates: 36g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 23g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use graham cracker crumbs instead of all-purpose flour for the crust.
- Instead of honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar.
- You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Any type of ripe fruit can be used instead of pears.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the crust for extra crunch.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for a warm spice flavor.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the cake before serving.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients to avoid lumps.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the pears thinly and evenly.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, place the cake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Garnishes:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Sliced almonds
- Caramel sauce
Pairings:
- A cup of hot tea or coffee
- A glass of white wine
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Mixed green salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the crust is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until the dough comes together.
- If the filling is not set after the recommended cooking time, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the recipe.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food History:
- Käsekuchen (German cheesecake) is a traditional dessert in Germany and is often served during holidays and celebrations.
Flavor Profiles:
- The Birnen-Honig-Käsekuchen has a sweet and tangy flavor from the honey and cream cheese, with a subtle crunch from the crust and a juicy burst from the pears.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cake as a dessert after a meal or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
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Region: German