If you’re looking to add a touch of Polish tradition to your Christmas baking repertoire, then look no further than this delightful recipe for Sernik Z Makiem Poppy Seed Cheesecake. This dessert is a beautiful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the nutty aroma of poppy seeds, making it a perfect sweet treat for the holiday season. Let’s dive into creating this delicious Polish Christmas classic!
**Sernik Z Makiem Poppy Seed Cheesecake**
**Ingredients:**
– 300g digestive biscuits
– 150g unsalted butter, melted
– 500g cream cheese, at room temperature
– 200g granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 250ml sour cream
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 100g ground poppy seeds
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Biscuit Base:**
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
– Crush the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
– In a bowl, mix the biscuit crumbs with the melted butter until well combined.
– Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating an even layer. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
2. **Make the Cheesecake 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 sour cream, flour, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated.
– Gently fold in the ground poppy seeds until evenly distributed.
3. **Assembly and Baking:**
– Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled biscuit base in the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
– Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips and place it in the preheated oven.
– Bake for about 60-70 minutes or until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
4. **Cooling and Serving:**
– Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for another hour to cool gradually.
– Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the fridge.
– Chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
5. **Finishing Touches:**
– Before serving, dust the top of the cheesecake with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
– Slice the Sernik Z Makiem Poppy Seed Cheesecake into portions and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee as a delightful dessert during your holiday celebrations.
Who can resist the charm of a creamy cheesecake intertwined with the aromatic essence of poppy seeds? This Polish Christmas baking delight is sure to bring smiles to your family and guests. Try your hand at making this Sernik Z Makiem Poppy Seed Cheesecake to add a touch of Eastern European magic to your festive table this holiday season.
