Classic French Cheesecake
French cheesecake is a sophisticated and light dessert that balances creamy textures with a subtle tanginess. Made with fromage blanc or goat cheese, this cheesecake offers a delicate flavor profile that stands out from its richer counterparts like the American New York cheesecake. Its smooth, airy consistency and minimal crust allow the cheese filling to shine, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or a refined dessert experience.
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9-inch round cake or tart pan (if not using a springform pan)
- Cooling rack
- Sifter (for dusting powdered sugar)
Ingredients
- 2 cups fromage blanc or ricotta as an alternative
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 1 pre-baked graham cracker crust optional
- Powdered sugar for dusting optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). If using a crust, place it in the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the fromage blanc (or ricotta) until smooth.
- Add sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Continue mixing until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add flour and a pinch of salt, and mix until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared crust or into the pan if no crust is used.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar for 30 minutes to cool.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, or top with fresh berries for an added touch.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free crust.
For added richness, you can substitute some of the fromage blanc with cream cheese, but keep the ratio of lighter cheese to maintain the airy texture.
Serve with a drizzle of honey or a fresh fruit compote for an added burst of flavor.
For added richness, you can substitute some of the fromage blanc with cream cheese, but keep the ratio of lighter cheese to maintain the airy texture.
Serve with a drizzle of honey or a fresh fruit compote for an added burst of flavor.