Save to Pinterest In the heart of Latin American cuisine, where tropical fruits reign supreme, the Guava Cheesecake stands as a testament to culinary fusion at its finest. This dessert marries the familiar comfort of a classic creamy cheesecake with the exotic, sweet-tart flavor of guava, creating a symphony of tastes that transport you straight to the Caribbean with each bite. The vibrant pink swirls of guava marmalade dance through the velvety cream cheese filling, all resting atop a buttery Maria cookie crust that provides the perfect textural contrast.
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The origin of this dessert can be traced to the vibrant food cultures where guava is celebrated as a local treasure. In many Latin American homes, guava paste (pasta de guayaba) is a pantry staple, often paired with cheese for a quick snack. This cheesecake elevates that beloved combination into an elegant dessert worthy of special occasions, while remaining accessible enough for home bakers to master.
Ingredients
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- For the Crust: 200 g Maria cookies (or digestive biscuits), 80 g unsalted butter (melted), 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- For the Cheesecake Filling: 600 g cream cheese (softened), 200 g granulated sugar, 200 ml sour cream, 3 large eggs, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, zest of 1 lime (optional)
- For the Guava Swirl: 200 g guava marmalade or paste, 2 tbsp water (to thin, if needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. Crush Maria cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix with melted butter and 2 tbsp sugar until evenly moistened. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the base of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.
- Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream, mixing well. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until combined after each. Stir in vanilla extract and lime zest, if using.
- Assemble and Swirl
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. In a small saucepan, gently heat the guava marmalade with 2 tbsp water until loosened and pourable. If using paste, mash and stir until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of guava marmalade over the cheesecake batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the guava into the filling for a marbled effect.
- Bake and Cool
- Bake for 50–55 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 3 hours or overnight before removing from the pan and slicing.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
The key to a perfect cheesecake texture is patience. Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the eggs to prevent incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks during baking. The slow cooling process in the turned-off oven is also crucial - dramatic temperature changes are the enemy of a smooth-topped cheesecake. If you're using guava paste rather than marmalade, warming it thoroughly with a bit of water will help achieve the right consistency for swirling.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
This versatile recipe welcomes creative adaptations. For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream for the dairy components. A gluten-free crust can be made with gluten-free cookies or a mixture of almond flour and coconut. For a more pronounced tropical flavor, add 2 tablespoons of coconut cream to the filling or replace the vanilla extract with coconut extract. If guava is unavailable, try using mango or passion fruit puree for an equally delicious tropical variation.
Serviervorschläge
Present this stunning cheesecake on a decorative cake stand for maximum impact. For an elegant finish, garnish with fresh guava slices, a sprinkle of lime zest, or a few edible flowers. A dollop of whipped cream on the side complements the tangy-sweet flavors perfectly. To emphasize the tropical theme, serve with a scoop of coconut sorbet or a drizzle of passion fruit coulis. This dessert is the perfect finale to a Latin-inspired meal or a refreshing conclusion to a summer barbecue.
Save to Pinterest This Guava Cheesecake isn't just a dessert – it's a celebration of cultural fusion and tropical abundance. The contrast between the rich, tangy filling and the sweet, fruity guava creates a memorable flavor experience that will have your guests requesting the recipe. Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this cheesecake brings a taste of Latin American sunshine to your table, no matter where you are.
FAQs About This Recipe
- → How do I prepare the crust for this dessert?
Crush Maria cookies into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter and sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a springform pan and bake briefly to set.
- → What is the best way to create the guava swirl?
Gently heat guava marmalade with water until pourable, then drop spoonfuls over the filling and swirl using a knife or skewer for marbled effect.
- → How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
After baking, allow the cheesecake to cool gradually by leaving the oven door ajar for an hour before refrigeration.
- → What alternatives can be used for Maria cookies?
Digestive biscuits or graham crackers make excellent substitutes for the cookie crust base.
- → Are there tips for easier slicing?
Dip your knife in hot water between cuts to ensure clean, smooth slices.
