Moroccan-Inspired Cheesecake

Ingredients

While the original New York-style cheesecake is known for its simplicity and richness, this Moroccan-inspired version incorporates traditional Moroccan spices and flavors to add a unique twist. The crust is made with crushed almonds and fragrant spices, and the filling is infused with hints of cinnamon, cardamom, and orange blossom water. This adaptation brings a touch of Moroccan charm to the classic American dessert. We alse have the original recipe for New York-Style Cheesecake, so you can check it out.

• Crust: Crust:
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) crushed almonds 1 1/2 cups (180g) crushed almonds
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
• Filling: Filling:
• 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat: 35g (Saturated Fat: 18g)
• Carbohydrates: 28g (Sugars: 20g)
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed almonds, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and melted butter for the crust. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. 3.
   Press the crust mixture evenly onto the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
4. 4.
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, and orange blossom water until smooth and creamy.
5. 5.
   Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, pour in the heavy cream and mix until fully incorporated.
6. 6.
   Pour the filling over the baked crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
7. 7.
   Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
8. 8.
   Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional 1 hour to cool gradually.
9. 9.
   Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Crushed almonds — Make sure to use finely crushed almonds to achieve a smooth crust texture.
• Cream cheese — Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Orange blossom water — Use a high-quality orange blossom water for the best flavor impact.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense Moroccan flavor, sprinkle some ground cinnamon and cardamom on top of the cheesecake before serving.
• Serve the cheesecake with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for an extra touch of Moroccan flair.
• To achieve a perfectly smooth filling, make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• If you prefer a stronger citrus flavor, add a teaspoon of grated orange zest to the filling.
• To prevent cracks on the surface of the cheesecake, avoid overmixing the batter and do not open the oven door during baking.

Serving advice

Serve each slice of Moroccan-inspired cheesecake with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. The creamy and spiced flavors of the cheesecake pair beautifully with the lightness of the whipped cream.

Presentation advice

Garnish the cheesecake with a few whole almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar. For an elegant touch, place a fresh mint leaf on each slice before serving.