Feta cheesecake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering a creamy texture and savory flavor that’s sure to surprise your taste buds. Imagine slicing into a rich, velvety cheesecake topped with tangy feta and fresh herbs, blending sweetness with subtle saltiness in every bite.
I first stumbled upon this delightful creation at a potluck where my friend brought it as her “secret” dish. The moment I tasted it, I knew I had to recreate this masterpiece in my kitchen. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners at home, this feta cheesecake promises to be a conversation starter that leaves everyone wanting more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This feta cheesecake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers
- Its unique flavor profile combines sweet and savory elements that tantalize the palate
- Visually stunning with its creamy topping and fresh herbs, it adds elegance to any table
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or dessert, it fits perfectly into any occasion
Sharing this feta cheesecake with friends left them speechless, and I still get asked for the recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cream Cheese: A must-have for that rich base; use full-fat for optimal creaminess.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a tangy kick; opt for high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Sour Cream: Adds richness and balances flavors; choose full-fat sour cream for extra creaminess.
Eggs: Essential for binding; use large eggs at room temperature for even mixing.
Sugar: Just a touch of sweetness balances the savory notes; adjust according to your preference.
Fresh Herbs (like dill or parsley): These add freshness and flavor; feel free to mix based on personal preference.
Graham Cracker Crust: For that classic cheesecake base; consider adding some herbs to the crust for an interesting twist.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a springform pan with cooking spray for easy removal later. The aroma of baking will soon fill your kitchen!
Create the Crust: In a bowl, combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter until mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.
Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add sugar while continuing to mix until fully combined—this should take about two minutes.
Add Feta and Sour Cream: Gently fold in crumbled feta and sour cream into the mixture until well incorporated. The blend should be creamy with little specks of feta visible throughout.
Add Eggs One at a Time: Mix in eggs one by one, ensuring each egg is fully blended before adding the next. This helps create that smooth texture we all love in cheesecakes.
Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Stir in your choice of finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley—this is where things get exciting! The scent will be heavenly as you mix them in.
Bake and Cool It Down: Pour your cheesecake filling over the baked crust and smooth out the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set but center still has a slight jiggle. Once done, turn off the oven and let it cool inside for an hour.
And voila! You’ve just created a delectable feta cheesecake that’s ready to impress!
Now comes the best part: serve slices garnished with more fresh herbs or even some roasted cherry tomatoes on top if you’re feeling adventurous! Enjoy this unique dessert that balances savory flavors while leaving everyone guessing about its secret ingredient!
With each bite of this feta cheesecake, you’ll experience layers of creamy delight that make any occasion special. Whether it’s family dinner night or casual brunching with friends, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!
You Must Know
- Feta cheesecake is a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake, combining creamy goodness with savory flavors
- It’s perfect for parties and will impress your guests with its unique taste
- This dish offers both versatility and endless customization possibilities to suit your palate
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best feta cheesecake, start by blending ingredients in a smooth mixture before baking. This ensures a creamy texture and prevents lumps.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap feta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor or add herbs like dill for an extra kick. Customize toppings with fresh fruits or nuts.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain texture without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always allow your feta cheesecake to cool completely before slicing; this helps maintain its shape
- Using room temperature ingredients can prevent lumps and ensure even cooking
- Don’t skip on the crust; it’s essential for that perfect crunch!
Creating this feta cheesecake reminded me of the first time I tried it at a friend’s holiday party; everyone was raving about how different yet delicious it was!
FAQ
What is feta cheesecake?
Feta cheesecake combines creamy cheese with sweet and savory flavors, offering a unique dessert experience.
Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for different flavor profiles.
How do I serve feta cheesecake?
Serve chilled, topped with fresh herbs, fruits, or a drizzle of honey for added flavor.
Feta Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Feta cheesecake is a unique and savory twist on the classic dessert, blending creamy textures with tangy feta and fresh herbs. This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, from summer gatherings to cozy dinners. Its sweet and savory flavor profile will surprise and impress your guests, making it a conversation starter at your next event. Easy to prepare, this feta cheesecake is sure to become a beloved recipe in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a springform pan with cooking spray.
- For the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until wet sand forms. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes until golden.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar while mixing for about two minutes.
- Fold in crumbled feta and sour cream until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for a smooth texture.
- Stir in chopped fresh herbs.
- Pour cheesecake filling over the baked crust and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes until edges are set but center has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and let cheesecake cool inside for an hour before removing from the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
