Cheddar Supreme Cheese Cake
A rich and creamy cheese cake with a buttery Zwieback crust, infused with mild cheddar and lemon zest, perfect for special occasions or indulgent desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Zwieback crumbs with 3 tablespoons sugar and 2 teaspoons grated lemon rind in a small bowl.
- Blend in melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly over the bottom and sides of an 8-inch spring-form pan.
- Set the pan in a 12-inch long piece of foil; fold the foil up along the sides to catch any butter that may bubble out.
- Chill the crust while making the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat all remaining ingredients: cream cheese, grated Cheddar cheese, sugar, eggs, and cream until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
- Bake at 500°F (260°C) for 12 minutes.
- Reduce temperature to 250°F (120°C) and bake for an additional 2 hours or until the top is firm.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely.
- Garnish with canned or fresh fruit, such as cherries.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have Zwieback crumbs, crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers can be good substitutes. To avoid cracks on the surface, bake the cheesecake in a water bath, which helps maintain a consistent temperature. Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheddar Supreme Cheese Cake chilled, garnished with fresh fruit like cherries or berries for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside light salads or dishes like Mimi'S Squash Casserole for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and avoid reheating as it may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Supreme Cheese Cake contains roughly 565 calories, with 12g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. While mild Cheddar is recommended for its flavor, you could try using a sharp Cheddar for a more intense taste or a combination of cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks?
Cracking can occur due to rapid temperature changes. To minimize this, avoid opening the oven during baking, and consider using a water bath. If cracks do appear, you can cover them with fruit topping or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
How can I tell when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).