Desserts > Dutch > Holidays

Pepernoten Cheesecake Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup pepernoten, crushed
- 1/4 cup melted butter

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Medium bowl
- Small bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth.
6. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until just combined.
7. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Beat until just combined.
8. Pour the mixture over the graham cracker crust.
9. In a small bowl, combine crushed pepernoten and melted butter. Mix until combined.
10. Sprinkle the pepernoten mixture over the top of the cheesecake.
11. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the center is set.
12. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 400
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 7g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Graham cracker crumbs: can be substituted with digestive biscuit crumbs
- Butter: can be substituted with margarine
- Sour cream: can be substituted with Greek yogurt

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the graham cracker crust for added crunch
- Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the cheesecake batter for a chocolatey twist

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the batter
- 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 seconds, or until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon
- Top with fresh berries for a pop of color

Garnishes:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
- Chopped nuts
- Chocolate chips

Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Green salad

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheesecake is too soft, bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- If the cheesecake is too dry, add a few tablespoons of sour cream to the batter.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using.
- Refrigerate any leftovers promptly.

Food History:
Pepernoten are a traditional Dutch cookie made with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. They are usually served around the holidays and are a popular snack in the Netherlands.

Flavor Profiles:
This cheesecake has a sweet and spicy flavor from the pepernoten and the spices. The graham cracker crust adds a crunchy texture, while the cream cheese adds a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions:
This cheesecake is best served chilled. It can be served as a dessert or as a snack.

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Region: Dutch

Taste: Sweet, Spicy, Creamy, Nutty