When preparing for the festive season, it’s essential to have a lineup of delightful treats to share with loved ones. Capturing the essence of Polish Christmas traditions, we bring you a recipe for a lusciously creamy and indulgent dessert – Sernik Waniliowy, also known as Vanilla Cheesecake. This dessert is a wonderful addition to any holiday table, blending the richness of cream cheese with the delightful aroma of vanilla. Let’s dive into how to create this irresistible Polish dessert that will surely impress your family and friends.
### Sernik Waniliowy Vanilla Cheesecake
#### Ingredients:
– **For the crust:**
– 200g digestive biscuits
– 100g unsalted butter, melted
– **For the filling:**
– 750g cream cheese, softened
– 200g granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tbsp vanilla extract
– 250ml sour cream
– Zest of 1 lemon
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
– In a food processor, pulse the digestive biscuits until finely ground.
– Pour the melted butter over the biscuits and mix until well combined.
– Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even crust. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
2. **Prepare the Filling:**
– 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.
– Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. **Assemble the Cheesecake:**
– Pour the filling over the chilled crust, spreading it evenly.
– Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
4. **Bake the Cheesecake:**
– Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden.
– Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
– Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
5. **Chill and Serve:**
– Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set.
– Before serving, you can garnish the cheesecake with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Enjoy a slice of this decadent Sernik Waniliowy Vanilla Cheesecake with a warm cup of tea or coffee, savoring the delicate vanilla flavors infused in every bite. This dessert is sure to become a highlight of your holiday gatherings, blending a creamy texture with just the right amount of sweetness. Share the joy of Polish Christmas traditions with this delightful recipe that will leave your guests asking for more. Happy baking!
