Wednesday, June 29, 2011

How To Bake An Excellent Cheesecake, Every Time

By Anya Shiela Richards


One of the characteristics of cheesecake is that it is either good or bad; no cheesecake is ever 'so-so'. Also, the fact that everyone loved the last cheesecake you made does not necessarily mean that you have a fool-proof cheesecake recipe that is bound to turn out good every time. If cheesecake is one of your family's favorite desserts and you are having trouble producing a perfect cake consistently, use the tips in this article to help improve your cheesecake.

A number of key points to keep in mind can help raise your chances of success when you are making a cheesecake. The problem with cheesecake does not lie in the recipe you use. What makes or breaks a cheesecake is the manner in which ingredients are combined and the way the cake is baked. If you are looking for a good cheesecake recipe, don't worry about how difficult or complicated it appears to be. Your best option is to get the recipe of a cake you have tasted and liked. Many cooks will be flattered if you ask them for the recipe for their wonderful cheesecake and will happily share it with you.

Take out all the ingredients required for the recipe of your choice, and wait until they are at room temperature. When all ingredients are at the same (room) temperature, they will blend properly and easily. Make sure the cream cheese is soft before you start making the cake.

The reason why proper combining of ingredients is so important when making cheesecake is that it can drastically affect the density of the cake. If not enough air is beaten into the batter, the cheesecake will not rise and fall properly, producing cracks on the top. When beating the batter to make cheesecake, always use the paddle attachment of your mixer. If you are using a manual mixer, use the lowest available speed.

One of the problems many cooks face is that their cheesecakes come out overcooked. To avoid this, you should be aware that when a cheesecake is ready to come out of the oven, it does not look done. Actually, the cake will look quite soft and jiggly and you'll be tempted to keep it in the oven a little longer - a big mistake! Take the cheesecake out of your oven at the end of the baking time, and don't worry; the center of the cake is supposed to look uncooked.

When the cheesecake comes out of the oven, it is essential to take a knife and run it between the cheesecakes and pan as to keep it from cracking. A cheesecake will contract as it cools and if you do not loosen it from the pan it will stay attached and most definitely crack.

Finally, never cool cheesecakes inside the oven. Take the cake out and let it cool completely on your kitchen counter. If you are short on time and would like to serve the cheesecake as soon as possible, you may even put it in your refrigerator to cool.

Creating the perfect cheesecake can be elusive for many, but by following a few tips, you can be well on your way to creating your own culinary desert masterpiece.




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