Cheesecake is a beloved dessert that has found its way into the hearts of dessert enthusiasts around the world. South Africa, known for its vibrant cuisine and unique flavours, offers a delightful twist on this classic treat with its Nut-Free South African Amarula Cheesecake. Bursting with the rich and creamy flavours of Amarula liqueur, this delectable dessert promises to captivate your taste buds. So, let’s dive into the world of South African indulgence and learn how to create this heavenly nut-free cheesecake.
Amarula Liqueur: A Taste of South Africa: Before we delve into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate Amarula liqueur, a truly iconic South African creation. Amarula is made from the fruit of the indigenous marula tree, which grows abundantly in the region. The ripe marula fruit is handpicked, fermented, and distilled to produce the smooth and velvety Amarula liqueur. With hints of caramel, vanilla, and exotic fruit, Amarula adds a distinct flavour profile that elevates the cheesecake to new heights.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 2 cups crushed digestive biscuits
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup Amarula liqueur
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the topping:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set it aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed digestive biscuits, melted butter, and granulated sugar for the crust. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the biscuit mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Pour in the Amarula liqueur and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until well combined. Gradually add the flour and mix until the filling is smooth and free of lumps.
- Remove the crust from the refrigerator and pour the filling over it, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- While the cheesecake is baking, prepare the topping by mixing the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
- After the cheesecake is done baking, remove it from the oven and spread the sour cream topping over the surface.
- Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set properly.
- Before serving, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan and transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate.
- Decorate as desired with fresh fruits, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of Amarula liqueur.
The Nut-Free South African Amarula Cheesecake presents a tantalising fusion of flavours that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant culinary landscape of South Africa. With its smooth, velvety texture and the rich essence of Amarula liqueur, this cheesecake is a dessert that truly stands out. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a delightful indulgence, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather the ingredients, embrace the flavours of South Africa, and embark on a culinary adventure with this irresistible Amarula cheesecake.