Ostkaka, or Swedish Cheesecake, is a traditional Scandinavian dessert that is often enjoyed during the holidays, particularly at Christmas. This unique cheesecake is less sweet than its American counterpart and has a distinct, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with fresh berries and whipped cream. Here’s how to make this delightful Swedish treat at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cube raw milk
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 rennet tablet
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup whipping cream
Instructions:
- Prepare the Milk Mixture:
- Mix 1 cup of cold milk with ¾ cup of flour to make a soft paste. Set aside.
- Dissolve the 1/2 rennet tablet in 1 tablespoon of water and set aside.
- Heat the remaining milk to lukewarm (98 to 102 degrees F / 36 to 39 degrees C) and remove from heat. Add the flour paste and dissolved rennet to the milk, stirring until the milk begins to set. Cover and let stand until firm, about 1 hour.
- Prepare the Curd:
- Gently break up the curd and remove the whey. Be careful not to make the curd too dry and handle gently to avoid breaking it up too much.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 teaspoon of butter.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the whipping cream and mix well.
- Gently fold the curd mixture into the egg mixture until well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the cheesecake is golden brown and set.
- Serve:
- Allow the cheesecake to cool slightly before serving. Ostkaka is traditionally served with lingonberries, but you can also use raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries. Top with whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
This Swedish Cheesecake is a wonderful dessert that brings a taste of Scandinavian tradition to your table. Enjoy it with family and friends during the festive season or any time of the year.