Discover how to make Latvian Cheesecake, or Latviešu Siera Kūka, a traditional treat known for its rich, creamy texture and unique flavor from local cheeses. This recipe guides you through creating a delightful dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Follow our easy steps to enjoy this classic Latvian dish at home.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

 - 200g (7 oz) digestive biscuits or graham crackers, crushed

 - 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter, melted

 - 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Filling:

 - 500g (1 lb) local cheese (such as farmer’s cheese or ricotta)

 - 200g (7 oz) cream cheese

 - 200g (7 oz) sour cream

 - 150g (5.3 oz) sugar

 - 3 large eggs

 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

 - Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions:

Prepare the Crust:

  - Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

  - In a bowl, combine the crushed biscuits, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed.

  - Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.

Prepare the Filling:

  - In a large mixing bowl, blend the local cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth.

  - Add the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until everything is well incorporated and smooth.

Assemble and Bake:

  - Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.

  - Smooth the top with a spatula.

  - Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.

  - Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.

Chill and Serve:

  - Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set properly.

  - Remove from the springform pan and transfer to a serving plate. Optionally, garnish with fresh fruit or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Latvian Cheesecake!

Nutritional Values:

Digestive Biscuits (per 100g):

  - Calories: 450 kcal

  - Protein: 5g

  - Fat: 20g

  - Carbohydrates: 65g

  - Fiber: 2g

  - Sugar: ~25g

Benefits:Digestive biscuits provide a quick source of energy and are often enriched with vitamins and minerals. They can help maintain energy levels throughout the day.

Unsalted Butter (per 100g):

  - Calories: 717 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 81g

  - Saturated Fat: 51g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.1g

Benefits: Butter is a source of vitamin A, which is important for vision, immune function, and skin health. It also provides essential fatty acids that are important for brain function.

Local Cheese (Farmer’s Cheese or Ricotta, per 100g):

  - Calories: 150-200 kcal

  - Protein: 7-14g

  - Fat: 10-15g

  - Carbohydrates: 3-5g

Benefits: Local cheeses are rich in protein, calcium, and phosphorus, which support bone health and muscle function. They also provide a good source of vitamins A and B12.

Cream Cheese (per 100g):

  - Calories: 342 kcal

  - Protein: 6g

  - Fat: 34g

  - Saturated Fat: 20g

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits:Cream cheese provides calcium and vitamin A. It’s also a good source of fat, which can provide energy and support the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Sour Cream (per 100g):

  - Calories: 193 kcal

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 19g

  - Saturated Fat: 12g

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits: Sour cream contains probiotics, which support gut health. It also provides calcium and vitamin B12.

Sugar (per 100g):

  - Calories: 387 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 100g

Benefits: Sugar provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It’s important for enhancing the flavor and texture of baked goods.

Eggs (per 100g):

  - Calories: 155 kcal

  - Protein: 13g

  - Fat: 11g

  - Saturated Fat: 3g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. They also provide vitamins A, D, E, and B12, as well as choline, which supports brain health.

Vanilla Extract (per 100g):

  - Calories: 288 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 30g

Benefits: Vanilla extract contains antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage. It also adds a rich flavor to dishes with minimal added calories.

Lemon Juice (per 100g):

  - Calories: 22 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

Benefits: Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports skin health. It also has antioxidant properties and can aid digestion.

Lemon Zest (per 100g):

  - Calories: 60 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 15g

Benefits: Lemon zest provides essential oils and antioxidants. It enhances flavor and adds beneficial compounds like vitamin C and flavonoids.

While these ingredients contribute to the rich and creamy texture of Latvian Cheesecake, it’s important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.