Name: Swedish Ostkaka Swedish Cheesecake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 500 g Cottage cheese; 75 g All-purpose flour; 300 ml Milk; 3 medium Eggs; 75 g Sugar; 1/2 tbs Lemon juice; 60 g Chopped almonds; 1 pinch Salt

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Every time I think of Swedish Ostkaka, or Swedish Cheesecake, I’m transported back to the warm embrace of my grandmother’s kitchen. It was a place where the aroma of freshly baked goods mingled with laughter and stories. This cake, with its unique texture and delightful flavor, always made special occasions even more memorable. Whether it was a family gathering or a cozy afternoon treat, my grandmother would whip up this delicious dessert, and we would savor every bite together. The creamy filling and subtle almond flavor were a perfect way to conclude any meal, and its presence was always a source of joy. Today, I want to share this cherished recipe with you, hoping it brings as much happiness to your table as it did to mine.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
50 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Oven, Baking Sheet

The Beauty of This Swedish Ostkaka Swedish Cheesecake

There’s Something Special About Ostkaka

Swedish Ostkaka stands out for several reasons. First, the ingredients are simple yet wholesome, emphasizing the beauty of traditional baking. The combination of cottage cheese, eggs, and almonds creates a rich and creamy texture that is simply irresistible. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a piece of Swedish heritage that has been passed down through generations.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This cake is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for any gathering, be it a festive celebration or a casual get-together. You can serve it warm or chilled, and it pairs beautifully with fresh fruits or a drizzle of berry sauce. I love to offer it at dinner parties as a light dessert that doesn’t leave you feeling overly full.

Easy to Make

One of the best aspects of Swedish Ostkaka is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert that looks and tastes like you spent hours on it. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is forgiving and easy to follow. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Healthier Indulgence

Unlike many other desserts, Swedish Ostkaka offers a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. The use of cottage cheese provides a protein punch, making it a guilt-free treat that you can enjoy any time of the year. Plus, with the addition of nuts like almonds, you get a boost of healthy fats, too.

A Delicious Tradition

This cake isn’t just another recipe; it’s a celebration of Swedish culture. By making Swedish Ostkaka, you’re participating in a long-standing tradition that honors the past while also making new memories in the kitchen. Each bite connects you to the generations that came before and the stories that are still to be told.

Ingredient List for Swedish Ostkaka Swedish Cheesecake

When it comes to baking the perfect Swedish Ostkaka, the choice of ingredients is crucial. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that signature texture and flavor. Start with fresh, high-quality cottage cheese, which serves as the base of your cheesecake. The almonds add a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheese beautifully. Let’s explore the ingredients that make this cake so special.

Cottage cheese (500g) – The star of the show, providing a creamy texture and a rich base for the cake.
All-purpose flour (75g) – This helps bind the ingredients together and gives the cake structure.
Milk (300ml) – Adds moisture and richness to the batter, ensuring a luscious result.
Eggs (3 medium) – Essential for binding and providing lift, creating a light cheesecake.
Sugar (75g) – Adds sweetness, balancing the flavors of the cake.
Lemon zest (the zest of half a lemon) – Brightens the flavor profile with a hint of citrus.
Lemon juice (1/2 tablespoon) – Enhances the overall flavor and adds a refreshing acidity.
Chopped almonds (60g) – Finely chopped for a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
Salt (1 pinch) – A crucial ingredient to enhance all the flavors.
Butter (for greasing) – Essential for preparing the tin to prevent sticking.

Putting Together Swedish Ostkaka Swedish Cheesecake

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to put our Swedish Ostkaka together! The steps are straightforward, but the results are spectacular. Follow this guide to create a cheesecake that not only tastes amazing but also fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.

Preheat your oven to 225°C (437°F). This is an important step to ensure even baking. While the oven heats, prepare your baking tin. Take a 30×40 cm (12 x16 inch) tin and grease it with butter to ensure the cake will come out easily.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, milk, eggs, flour, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped almonds, and a pinch of salt. Using a whisk or a hand mixer, blend all the ingredients together until smooth. Pay attention to the consistency; it should be creamy and well-mixed without any lumps.
Once your batter is smooth, pour it into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly. This helps the cake bake uniformly, giving you that beautiful texture throughout.
Carefully place the tin in the middle of your preheated oven. Bake the cake for about 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for a golden top and a slight jiggle in the center, which means it’s perfectly set.
Once done, remove the cake from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly in the tin before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling step is essential as it helps set the cake further.
For serving, it’s delightful either warm or chilled. If you want to elevate it further, consider serving it with a cold berry sauce, fresh strawberries, or a dollop of lemon crème fraîche. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cheesecake.

Things Worth Knowing

Check for Doneness: The cake is done when the edges are firm, and the center has a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools.
Cooling Time: Let the cake cool in the tin for at least 10 minutes before transferring. This helps prevent cracks on the surface.
Flavor Enhancements: For an additional flavor boost, consider adding a touch of almond extract to the batter.
Serving Temperature: Though delicious warm, chilling the cake for a few hours can intensify the flavors and make it even creamier.

Recipe Variations about Swedish Ostkaka Swedish Cheesecake

There are many exciting ways to enjoy Swedish Ostkaka. Here are some variations to try, adding your personal touch while staying true to the original recipe.

Add a Twist: Incorporate spices like cardamom or cinnamon into the batter for a unique flavor.
Fruit Additions: Mix in fresh or dried fruits, such as blueberries or raisins, for added sweetness and texture.
Serving Suggestions: Try serving with different fruit compotes or sauces, like raspberry or mango, for a vibrant presentation.
Alternative Nuts: If you’re not a fan of almonds, use other nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts for a different crunch.
Chocolate Version: For a chocolatey twist, fold in some cocoa powder or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Swedish Ostkaka can be as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas for presenting this beautiful dessert:

With Berry Sauce: Drizzle a homemade berry sauce over each slice to enhance both flavor and presentation.
Seasonal Fruits: Pair with fresh seasonal fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a colorful touch.
Chilled Options: Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche for a refreshing contrast.
Occasional Treat: This cake is perfect for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings.
Tea Time: Consider serving it during afternoon tea, alongside a cup of coffee or tea, for a cozy experience.
Picnic Delight: Pack slices for a picnic; it’s easy to transport and makes for a lovely treat outdoors.

FAQ

Swedish Ostkaka is a traditional Swedish cheesecake that is characterized by its unique texture created from cottage cheese. Unlike typical cheesecakes, it has a slightly grainy feel, which adds to its charm. It’s flavored with lemon and often includes almonds, making it a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Absolutely! Swedish Ostkaka can be made a day ahead of time. Allow it to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice it and enjoy with your favorite toppings like berry sauce or fresh fruit.

There are many delicious toppings that complement Swedish Ostkaka. Fresh berries, such as strawberries and blueberries, are a classic choice. You can also drizzle it with a homemade berry sauce or serve it alongside whipped cream. For a twist, try adding a dollop of lemon crème fraîche for an extra zing.

Yes, you can freeze Swedish Ostkaka! Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best to slice it before freezing for easy serving later. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

In summary, Swedish Ostkaka is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of cottage cheese with the crunch of almonds and the brightness of lemon. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make treat that can be enjoyed any time of the year. I encourage you to try making this recipe and share it with your loved ones. It’s not just about the cake, but the memories you create while baking and sharing it together.