
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:
- Combine the crumbled motichoor laddus with melted butter until well mixed.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan, forming a compact, even layer.
- Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and cardamom powder until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating just until blended after each addition. Stir in the flour.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the motichoor base in the springform pan.
Bake:
- 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.
- 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:
- Soak the saffron in warm milk for 10 minutes.
- Heat the heavy cream and sugar in a small saucepan over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the saffron-infused milk, and continue to cook for a few more minutes until slightly thickened.
- 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!