Kabocha Cheesecake

Kabocha Cheesecake is a delightful Japanese dessert that combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet, nutty flavor of kabocha squash. This unique treat is perfect for those looking to experience a fusion of traditional flavors in a light, vegetarian dessert.

Ingredients

• Kabocha squash - 200 grams
• Cream cheese - 100 grams, softened
• Granulated sugar - 50 grams
• Egg - 1 large
• Heavy cream - 50 ml
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Graham cracker crumbs - 50 grams
• Unsalted butter - 25 grams, melted
• Salt - a pinch

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
2. Cut the kabocha squash in half, remove seeds, and steam or boil until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Once cooked, scoop out the flesh and mash it until smooth; you should have about 150 grams of kabocha puree.
4. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt until well combined.
5. Press the mixture into the bottom of a small springform pan to form the crust.
6. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
7. Add the egg, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and kabocha puree to the cream cheese mixture, and blend until fully combined.
8. Pour the kabocha cheesecake filling over the crust in the springform pan.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
10. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional 10 minutes.
11. Remove from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours before serving.
12. Slice and serve chilled, optionally garnished with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Nutrition

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbs: 34 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 16 g
• Sodium: 230 mg
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Water: 0.1 L

Health Benefits

• Kabocha squash is rich in vitamins A and C, promoting good vision and a healthy immune system.
• The combination of cream cheese and heavy cream provides a satisfying source of calcium and protein.

Tags