Polish Christmas celebrations are rich in tradition and festive food plays a major role in the celebrations. One classic treat that always makes an appearance on the holiday table is the delicious Sernik Korzenne, also known as Spiced Cheesecake. This special dessert combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with warm and aromatic spices, creating a delightful twist on a traditional favorite. Perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season, this recipe will surely become a staple in your Christmas baking repertoire!
Sernik Korzenne Spiced Cheesecake
**Ingredients:**
– 350g digestive biscuits
– 150g unsalted butter, melted
– 750g cream cheese, softened
– 200g sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 orange
– 200ml sour cream
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the base with parchment paper.
2. Start by making the crust. Crush the digestive biscuits in a food processor until they resemble fine crumbs. Alternatively, place them in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and mix in the melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the biscuit mixture firmly into the base of the prepared pan, using the back of a spoon to create an even layer. Place the pan in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, lemon zest, and orange zest. Mix until all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
6. Fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the cheesecake filling to be smooth and fluffy.
7. Remove the springform pan from the fridge and pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
8. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for about an hour.
9. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
10. Before serving, run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake. Gently release the springform and transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate.
11. Slice the Sernik Korzenne Spiced Cheesecake into pieces and serve with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of your favorite festive spices for an extra touch of holiday cheer.
Enjoy this traditional Polish Christmas treat with your loved ones and let the warm flavors of the spices and creamy cheesecake filling make your holiday season even more special!
