Aunt Sarah's Cheese Cake Recipe

History of Aunt Sarah's Cheese Cake:

Aunt Sarah's Cheese Cake recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, originating from our ancestors who settled in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. This recipe is believed to have been brought over by German immigrants who settled in the area during the 18th century. The rich, creamy "smier kase" (cottage cheese) used in this recipe reflects the influence of the German heritage.

Fun Facts about Aunt Sarah's Cheese Cake:

1. Traditional Ingredient: The key ingredient in Aunt Sarah's Cheese Cake is the "smier kase," which is a type of cottage cheese. This cheese adds a unique and creamy texture to the cheesecake.

2. Unique Flavors: The combination of sweet milk, softened butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt adds a delightful balance of flavors to the cheesecake. The addition of flour helps in creating a smooth and creamy consistency.

3. Importance of Egg: The beaten egg plays a crucial role in binding the ingredients together and gives the cheese cake a light and fluffy texture.

Recipe for Aunt Sarah's Cheese Cake:

Ingredients:
- 1 heaping cup of rich and creamy "smier kase" (cottage cheese)
- 2 tablespoonfuls of sweet milk
- 1 tablespoonful of softened butter
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup of sugar
- 1-1/4 tablespoonfuls of flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup of milk
- Pastry crust for lining the pie-tin

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to a moderately hot temperature.

2. In a bowl, take the rich and creamy "smier kase" and mash it finely with a spoon until it becomes free from lumps.

3. Mix the mashed "smier kase" with 2 tablespoonfuls of sweet milk.

4. Add the softened butter, pinch of salt, sugar, and flour to the mixture. Mix well using a spoon until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

5. Once the mixture is smooth and creamy, beat in the large egg.

6. Gradually add 1 cup of milk to the mixture. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are combined thoroughly. The final mixture should measure approximately 3-3/4 cups and should have a thin consistency.

7. Pour the mixture into a pie-tin lined with pastry crust.

8. Place the pie-tin in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese custard is "set" and nicely browned on top. This usually takes around 45-50 minutes.

9. After baking, open the oven door and allow the cheese cake to cool for about 5 minutes before removing it.

10. Once the cheese cake is completely cooled, refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavor.

11. Serve chilled and enjoy the deliciousness of Aunt Sarah's Cheese Cake!

Similar Recipe Dishes:

1. New York Style Cheesecake: This popular American dessert uses cream cheese as the main ingredient instead of cottage cheese. It is known for its dense and creamy texture, often served with various toppings like fruit compotes or chocolate ganache.

2. German Käsekuchen: This German cheesecake is similar to Aunt Sarah's Cheese Cake, but it typically uses quark cheese or curd cheese instead of cottage cheese. It has a lighter texture and is often flavored with lemon zest or vanilla.

3. Ricotta Cheesecake: Ricotta cheese is often used in Italian-style cheesecakes. It imparts a slightly grainy texture and a subtly sweet flavor. This type of cheesecake is delicious with a dusting of powdered sugar on top.

4. Japanese Cotton Cheesecake: This Asian variation of cheesecake is known for its incredibly light and fluffy texture. It is made using a combination of cream cheese, eggs, and a small amount of flour, resulting in a delicate and airy cake-like dessert.

Regardless of the variations, cheesecakes in all their forms are universally loved and cherished for their creamy, indulgent goodness. Aunt Sarah's Cheese Cake recipe holds a special place in our family's culinary traditions, and I hope it brings you joy and delight as well. Enjoy!