Let’s dive into the delightful world of Polish Christmas baking with a special treat that is sure to warm your heart and home this holiday season. The Sernik Z Rodzynkami, or Raisin Cheesecake, is a traditional Polish dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the sweet chewiness of raisins. This recipe is perfect for creating a cozy and festive atmosphere in your kitchen, filling it with the scent of warm spices and sweet cheese baking in the oven.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp sugar
For the Filling:
– 24 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar for the crust. Mix well until the crumbs are coated evenly with the butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the sour cream, flour, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined and smooth. Finally, gently fold in the raisins until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Remove the crust from the refrigerator and pour the filling over the top, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
6. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
7. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for an additional 30 minutes to cool slowly.
8. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set and develop its flavors.
9. Serve slices of the Sernik Z Rodzynkami chilled, garnished with additional raisins for a festive touch. Enjoy the creamy, sweet richness of this Polish Christmas dessert with family and friends as you create heartwarming memories together.
This Raisin Cheesecake recipe is a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire, bringing a taste of Poland to your festive table. The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet raisins is sure to be a hit with your loved ones, making every bite a joyful celebration of the season. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a cozy treat at home, this Sernik Z Rodzynkami is a perfect choice for spreading warmth and cheer during the Christmas season.
