Craving something indulgent? This American Baked Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for your next dinner party or special occasion. With a rich, creamy filling and a touch of bourbon, it’s a slice of heaven on a plate. ️
Ingredients:
- 25cm/10in sponge (cut from a large bought flan case)
- 200g/7oz caster sugar
- Finely grated zest of 3 lemons
- 4 tbsp cornflour
- 3 tbsp sultanas, soaked in a bit of bourbon
- 845g/29¾oz full-fat soft cream cheese
- 3 medium eggs
- 7.5ml/1½ tsp vanilla essence
- 1 vanilla pod
- Jack Daniels or bourbon (optional)
- 375ml/12½fl oz double or single cream
To Serve:
- 10 small bananas
- 25g/1oz butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
- Caramel sauce or maple syrup
- Sprig of mint or basil
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. Butter a 25cm/10in loose-bottomed cake tin.
- Cut the sponge horizontally into 2 discs and use one to line the cake tin.
- In a bowl, mix sugar, lemon zest, cornflour, and sultanas. Beat in cream cheese, then add eggs one by one, followed by vanilla essence.
- Add vanilla seeds, a splash of bourbon (if using), and cream. Mix until smooth, then pour over the sponge base.
- Place the tin in a tray with 2-3mm of warm water and bake for 50 minutes until golden. Cool completely before removing from the tin.
- Just before serving, caramelize the bananas in butter and sugar.
- Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or maple syrup and a fresh mint or basil sprig.
Pro Tip: This cheesecake pairs perfectly with a glass of bourbon for an extra kick!
