Mary Berry's Classic Cheesecake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mary Berry, a household name synonymous with baking excellence, has graced our kitchens with countless recipes. Among her most beloved creations is her classic cheesecake. This guide provides a detailed, SEO-optimized recipe, ensuring you achieve a perfectly smooth, creamy, and delicious Mary Berry cheesecake.

Understanding the Ingredients: Key to Success

Before we dive into the recipe itself, let's understand the importance of each ingredient. Mary Berry's recipe relies on quality ingredients for optimal texture and taste.

• Digestive Biscuits: These provide the perfect crunchy base. Don't substitute with other biscuits; the texture won't be the same.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for better flavor control. Make sure it's softened, not melted, for proper binding.
• Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is crucial for that rich, creamy texture Mary Berry is known for. Don't use low-fat alternatives.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is best. It dissolves well and provides the perfect sweetness.
• Eggs: Use large, free-range eggs for the best results. Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter.
• Lemon Juice: A touch of lemon juice brightens the flavor and helps to balance the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: A dash of high-quality vanilla extract adds depth and complexity to the flavor.

Mary Berry Cheesecake Recipe: A Detailed Breakdown

This recipe is adapted from Mary Berry's classic, focusing on clarity and SEO optimization.

Yields: 12 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 50-60 minutes Chill time: At least 4 hours (preferably overnight)

Ingredients:

For the base:

• 200g digestive biscuits
• 85g unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 500g full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 100g caster sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment:

• 23cm springform cake tin
• Food processor (optional, for crushing biscuits)
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Baking paper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Biscuit Base:

1. Crush the digestive biscuits finely. You can use a food processor or a strong plastic bag and rolling pin.
2. Combine the crushed biscuits with the melted butter in a bowl. Mix well until evenly moistened.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the base of your prepared springform tin. Evenly distribute it and create an even layer.
4. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. An electric mixer is recommended for best results.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the filling over the chilled biscuit base.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan/Gas Mark 3).
2. Carefully place the springform tin into a larger roasting tin. Pour enough hot water into the roasting tin to come halfway up the sides of the springform tin (this creates a water bath for even baking).
3. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is just set around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center.
4. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour.
5. Once cooled, remove from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform tin. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, delicious result of your Mary Berry cheesecake. You can garnish with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips for the Perfect Mary Berry Cheesecake

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature helps prevent lumps in the filling.
• Water bath: The water bath prevents cracking and ensures even baking.
• Don't overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry cheesecake. It's better to slightly underbake and allow it to set in the refrigerator.
• Chill thoroughly: Allowing sufficient chilling time is essential for the cheesecake to set properly.

This detailed guide provides a complete, SEO-optimized recipe for Mary Berry's classic cheesecake. Follow these steps carefully, and you'll be rewarded with a delicious dessert that will impress your friends and family. Remember to share your baking triumphs using #MaryBerryCheesecake!