Fusion Baking – Motichoor Cheesecake

Here’s a delightful fusion recipe for Motichoor Cheesecake, which combines the classic Indian sweet, Motichoor Laddu, with a creamy Western-style cheesecake. This dessert offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, sure to impress at any gathering.

Ingredients:

For the Motichoor Base:

• 2 cups motichoor laddus (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Pinch of cardamom powder (optional for added flavor)

For the Saffron Glaze (Optional):

• A few strands of saffron
• 2 tablespoons warm milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Instructions:

Prepare the Motichoor Base:

1. Combine the crumbled motichoor laddus with melted butter until well mixed.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan, forming a compact, even layer.
3. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Beat the cream cheese and sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
3. Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and cardamom powder until well combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until blended after each addition. Stir in the flour.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the motichoor base in the springform pan.

Bake:

1. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges are lightly golden.
2. Cool the cheesecake in the pan on a wire rack for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Prepare the Saffron Glaze:

1. Soak the saffron in warm milk for 10 minutes.
2. Heat the heavy cream and sugar in a small saucepan over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the saffron-infused milk, and continue to cook for a few more minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Cool slightly and then pour over the chilled cheesecake.

Serving Suggestions:

• Garnish the cheesecake with more crumbled motichoor laddus, chopped nuts, or edible silver leaf before serving.
• Slice and serve chilled.

This Motichoor Cheesecake is a festive and flavorful dessert that beautifully marries the textures of creamy cheesecake with the sweet, grainy motichoor laddus. Enjoy this unique fusion at celebrations or as a special treat!