Feta cheesecake. Yes, you heard it right. Imagine a creamy, dreamy slice of cheesecake that’s tangy and rich, with a hint of Mediterranean flair that dances on your taste buds. No Bake Cookie Dough Cheesecake It’s like your favorite dessert decided to go on a vacation to Greece and returned with souvenirs of flavor! For more inspiration, check out this Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta recipe.
Now, picture this: you’re hosting a dinner party, and just as everyone settles in, you present this stunning feta cheesecake. The room fills with gasps of delight as the first slice is served—it’s a showstopper! This dish brings together the best of sweet and savory in a way that will have your guests talking about it long after the last crumb has vanished. Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Feta cheesecake offers an unexpected twist on traditional dessert, making it perfect for adventurous eaters
- With its smooth texture, it satisfies both savory and sweet cravings
- The vibrant presentation adds elegance to any table setting
- Impress your friends at gatherings or make it for a quiet night in—this cheesecake is always a win!
I once made this feta cheesecake for my family reunion, and let me tell you, my Aunt Carol’s eyes nearly popped out of her head when she took her first bite! She declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is high praise coming from someone who once forgot to take the plastic off her cheese before baking it. Herb Cheese Quick Bread.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Crushed Graham Crackers: Use plain graham crackers for a simple base; they add the perfect crunch and sweetness.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the crust together beautifully while adding richness. Blueberry Butter Swim Biscuits.
Feta Cheese: Use high-quality feta for the best flavor; crumbled feta adds a delightful tanginess.
Cream Cheese: Soften it before mixing to ensure a smooth texture; it balances the saltiness of the feta.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar elevates the sweetness level; feel free to adjust based on preference.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances overall flavor; opt for pure extract for richness.
Eggs: Use large eggs to help bind everything together; they create that silky texture we love in cheesecakes.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors; it’s like sunshine in every bite!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Create the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter until moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese and crumbled feta until creamy. Add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.
Add Eggs and Lemon Juice: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the cheese mixture, ensuring each egg is well blended before adding the next. Stir in fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Pour into Crust: Carefully pour the filling over your prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula for an even finish.
Bake It Up!: Place your cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures creaminess!
Cool and Chill!: Once baked, turn off the oven and allow your cheesecake to cool inside with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. Then refrigerate overnight for best results.
And there you have it—a luscious feta cheesecake that is sure to impress! Each step involves not just cooking but creating an experience filled with aromas and flavors that transform your kitchen into a culinary paradise. Enjoy every moment as you whip up this unique dessert! For more inspiration, check out this Avocado Chicken Salad recipe.
You Must Know
- Feta cheesecake is not your average dessert; it’s a creamy, tangy delight that will make your taste buds dance
- Whipping it up is a breeze and offers room for creativity
- The rich texture and fresh flavors can elevate any gathering, making it a showstopper
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you blend the crust ingredients. Then, bake the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling for optimal results.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping feta with goat cheese or adding fresh herbs like dill or basil for an exciting flavor twist. You can also incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a savory kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For best results, enjoy cold but you can warm it slightly in the oven if preferred.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth filling when mixing
- Avoid overbeating to prevent cracks on the surface during baking
- Finally, let it cool completely before refrigerating for better texture and flavor absorption
The first time I made feta cheesecake, my friends thought I was joking when I said “cheesecake,” but they were blown away by its unique flavor!
FAQ
What makes feta cheesecake different from traditional cheesecake?
Feta cheesecake has a savory twist, using feta cheese instead of cream cheese for unique flavor.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! It’s perfect to prepare one day in advance and refrigerate overnight to enhance flavors.
What toppings pair well with feta cheesecake?
Try drizzling honey, adding fresh herbs, or serving with roasted vegetables for delightful contrasts.
Feta Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Feta cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy sweetness and savory tang, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering. This unique dessert features a luscious blend of feta and cream cheese, creating a rich and smooth texture with a hint of Mediterranean flair. Whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed on a quiet night in, this cheesecake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter until moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese and crumbled feta until creamy. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, ensuring each is blended before adding the next. Stir in fresh lemon juice.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let cool inside with the door ajar for about an hour.
- Refrigerate overnight for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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