Sand cake with cottage cheese and berries

A sand cake with cottage cheese and berries is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cottage cheese with the freshness of berries and a crumbly, sandy texture. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuit crumbs
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 2 cups (450g) cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

For the Berry Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups (225g) mixed berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan or a regular pie dish.

2. Make the Crust:

   • In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
   • Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.

3. Bake the Crust:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Filling:

1. Blend the Filling:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the flour and lemon zest (if using) until well combined.

2. Pour into Crust:

   • Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the pre-baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

3. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. The center should still have a slight jiggle when you shake the pan.
   • Turn off the oven and let the cake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Then, remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.

3. Prepare the Berry Topping:

1. Cook the Berries:

   • In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Cool:

   • Let the berry topping cool to room temperature.

4. Assemble the Cake:

1. Top the Cake:

   • Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the berry topping evenly over the top.

2. Chill:

   • Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld and the cake to set properly.

Tips:

• Berry Choices: Feel free to use your favorite berries or a combination for the topping. If using frozen berries, thaw and drain them before cooking.
• Serving: Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra presentation.

Enjoy your sand cake with cottage cheese and berries—a creamy, fruity, and crumbly delight perfect for any occasion!