Welcome to the delightful world of Swedish cheesecake (ostkaka)! This unique dessert offers a charming, rustic experience, far different from the dense, creamy American cheesecakes you might know. Originating from the Småland region of Sweden, Ostkaka is a beloved cultural classic.
To delve deeper into its regional significance, the history of Ostkaka is intricately tied to Småland.
It boasts a custardy texture and subtle flavors. Get ready to bake a truly authentic Swedish cheesecake that’s incredibly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Swedish Cheesecake (Ostkaka)
You will adore this Swedish cheesecake (ostkaka) for many reasons.
- It is naturally crustless, offering a pure, eggy, and tender texture.
- Preparation is quick and simple, perfect for busy schedules.
- Enjoy its delightful almond and subtle lemon flavors.
- This makes an excellent, comforting dessert for any occasion.
- It pairs wonderfully with traditional accompaniments like jam and whipped cream.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Swedish cheesecake. These measurements ensure a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/4 cups milk or heavy cream
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of half a lemon (optional)
- Whipped cream, for serving
- Jam, for serving
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with several ingredients to customize your Ostkaka.
You can mash the cottage cheese as much or as little as you like. Some prefer a smooth texture, while others enjoy small curds. Finely chop or coarsely grind the almonds depending on your preferred bite. For a richer, creamier Swedish cheesecake, use heavy cream instead of milk, or a mix of both. Feel free to adjust the granulated sugar amount to your taste; some prefer it less sweet. Adding lemon zest offers a bright, fresh note, but you can omit it if you prefer a pure almond flavor.
Equipment
You won’t need many specialized tools for this simple recipe.
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking dish (approximately 6×8 inches or 16×20 cm)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chopping board and knife (for almonds)
- Spatula
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to bake your perfect Swedish cheesecake (ostkaka). This simple method guarantees a delicious, traditional result every time.
Step 1: Prepare oven and pan.
Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). Generously butter a 6×8 inch (16×20 cm) baking dish. This prevents sticking and helps create a lovely crust on the sides.
Step 2: Combine wet ingredients.
Mash the cottage cheese in a mixing bowl. Decide how smooth you want it – a few curds add rustic charm. Add the flour, milk or cream, eggs, sugar, and lemon zest (if using) to the mashed cottage cheese. Whisk everything together until just combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Step 3: Add almonds.
Finely chop or coarsely grind the 1/2 cup of almonds. Gently fold the prepared almonds into the batter using a spatula. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture for a delightful texture in every bite.
Step 4: Bake until golden.
Pour the entire batter into your prepared baking dish. Carefully transfer the dish to the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes. The top should turn a beautiful golden brown, and the center should appear set when lightly jiggled. Baking time: 45 minutes.
Step 5: Cool and serve.
Remove your delicious Swedish cheesecake from the oven. Let it cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm, lukewarm, or even cold, depending on your preference. Serve each slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a spoonful of your favorite jam for a truly authentic experience. Prep time: 15 minutes.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving the perfect texture for your Swedish cheesecake is easy with these tips. For a smoother Ostkaka, process the cottage cheese in a food processor before mixing. If you prefer more texture, simply mash it with a fork. To ensure even almond incorporation, sprinkle them in gradually while gently folding. If the top of your Swedish cheesecake starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time. If the center is still jiggly after the recommended time, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
This Swedish cheesecake is versatile for serving and easy to store.
Serving Suggestions:
Traditionally, Ostkaka is served warm or lukewarm with lingonberry jam and a cloud of whipped cream. You can also offer other fruit compotes, such as raspberry or blueberry. Pair a slice with a cup of strong coffee or herbal tea for a cozy fika moment. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries also make a beautiful and delicious garnish.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Swedish cheesecake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat in the oven.
Variations:
Experiment with different nuts like pistachios or walnuts for a unique flavor twist. Incorporate other citrus zests, such as orange or lime, for a different aroma. A pinch of cardamom or vanilla extract can add warmth and depth to the flavor profile. For individual portions, bake the batter in ramekins, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Nutrition
Swedish cheesecake offers a delightful balance of taste and nutrition. It provides a good source of protein, mainly from the cottage cheese and eggs. Almonds contribute healthy fats and fiber. While it contains sugar, cottage cheese adds calcium and other essential nutrients. You can modify this Swedish cheesecake for a lighter version by using low-fat cottage cheese and skim milk, or by slightly reducing the sugar content.
| Component | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280-320 |
| Protein | 15-18g |
| Fat | 15-20g |
| Carbohydrates | 20-25g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |
FAQ
You might have a few questions about this delightful Swedish cheesecake (ostkaka).
What makes Swedish cheesecake (ostkaka) different from American cheesecake?
Ostkaka is traditionally crustless and has a lighter, more custardy texture. It uses cottage cheese and rennet (historically), resulting in a less dense and less creamy dessert than its American counterpart.
Is it always made with rennet?
While traditional Ostkaka used rennet to curdle milk, modern home versions, like this recipe, often use cottage cheese. This makes it much simpler to prepare without sacrificing authentic flavor.
What is “Ostkakans dag”?
“Ostkakans dag” means “Cheesecake Day” in Sweden, celebrated annually on November 14th. To learn more about this special day and other Swedish food traditions, explore more cultural insights.
It is a day dedicated to enjoying and celebrating this beloved dessert.
Why is this dessert crustless?
The traditional Swedish cheesecake is inherently crustless. This highlights its unique custardy texture and allows the simple, pure flavors to shine through without competition.
Can I make this vegan or gluten-free?
While this traditional recipe is not vegan or gluten-free, adaptations exist. You can explore dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives and egg substitutes, or use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a modified version of this Swedish cheesecake.
Conclusion
Baking an authentic Swedish cheesecake (ostkaka) is a wonderfully rewarding experience. Its simple ingredients and straightforward process make it perfect for beginners and busy parents alike. This unique, custardy dessert holds a special place in Swedish culture, offering a taste of tradition with every forkful. We encourage you to try this recipe and share the joy of this delicious classic with your family and friends. Enjoy making this Swedish cheesecake!