Nigella New York Cheesecake Recipe

Delve into the creamy, indulgent world of Nigella Lawson's New York Cheesecake, a classic dessert that combines the richness of cream cheese with the subtle crunch of a biscuit base. This recipe, featured in "How to be a Domestic Goddess," is a testament to Nigella's culinary prowess and her ability to make sophisticated desserts accessible to home bakers everywhere.

Nigella Lawson's New York Cheesecake: A Brief Overview

Nigella's New York Cheesecake stands out with its velvety texture and rich flavor, balanced by the crispiness of a buttery biscuit base. The recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance, embodying the essence of what a classic New York Cheesecake should be.

Cultural and Historical Context

The New York Cheesecake is an iconic American dessert with a rich history. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Greece, but it was the introduction of cream cheese in the United States that gave birth to the New York Cheesecake as we know it today. Nigella's version pays homage to this tradition, combining classic techniques with her signature touch.

Ingredients for the New York Cheesecake

• For the base:
  • Digestive biscuits (300g)
  • Unsalted butter (115g)
  • Sugar (1 tbsp)
• For the filling:
  • Cream cheese (900g)
  • Sugar (250g)
  • Flour (3 tbsp)
  • Eggs (3 whole, 1 yolk)
  • Vanilla extract (1½ tsp)
  • Lemon zest and juice (from ½ lemon)
  • Soured cream (200ml)

Preparation Instructions

1. Base Preparation: Begin by processing digestive biscuits into fine crumbs, blending them with melted unsalted butter and sugar, then pressing the mixture into a springform pan to create an even layer.
2. Filling: Beat cream cheese until creamy, then gradually add sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt. Incorporate vanilla, lemon zest, and juice, followed by eggs and soured cream, ensuring the mixture remains smooth.
3. Baking: Pour the filling over the base, bake at a high temperature for a short burst, then lower the heat and continue baking until set. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven before chilling in the refrigerator.

Storage and Reheating

For optimal freshness, the cheesecake should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a few days. It does not fare well with freezing due to its delicate texture.

Nutritional Information

A typical serving provides a considerable amount of calories, fats, and sugars, characteristic of a rich dessert like cheesecake. For detailed nutritional values, portion sizes should be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a different type of biscuit for the base? Yes, while digestive biscuits are traditional, graham crackers or similar biscuits can be used.
• How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake? Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure gradual cooling after baking.

In conclusion, Nigella Lawson's New York Cheesecake recipe is a delightful creation that brings a slice of New York right into your kitchen. It's a celebration of simplicity, richness, and the joy of baking, promising to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

For more details on this exquisite recipe, visit Nigella's official website​​. Remember, this indulgent dessert, while straightforward to make, requires patience and care to achieve that perfect, creamy texture synonymous with the best New York Cheesecakes.