Popcorn cheesecake
A popcorn cheesecake that goes straight to the heart and delights the senses ;). A vanilla cheesecake (intentionally not too tall), topped with a layer of salted caramel and crunchy popcorn. It tastes absolutely incredible and looks just as impressive. It doesn’t sink, it’s not difficult to make, and it’s truly one of a kind. It’s guaranteed to be a showstopper at any party!
Ingredients for the base:
- 2 packs plain biscuits (such as petit beurre)
Ingredients for the salted caramel:
- 220 g sugar
- 60 ml water
- 120 ml double cream
- 30 g butter
- a generous pinch of salt
Place the sugar and water in a small saucepan. Bring to the boil, then reduce to medium heat and cook until the sugar dissolves. Continue cooking (without stirring – you can gently swirl the pan) for about 5 minutes, until the syrup turns from pale golden to a deep amber colour. Remove from the heat and carefully pour in the cream (it will bubble vigorously). Add the butter and salt, and stir until combined. Return to the heat briefly and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring. Leave to cool completely.
Ingredients for the cheesecake filling:
- 750 g full-fat or semi-fat curd cheese, finely ground
- 250 ml double cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ tablespoons potato starch (or cornflour)
- 1¼ cups caster sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
All ingredients should be at room temperature.
Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix until just combined (either with a mixer or a whisk). Do not overmix to avoid incorporating too much air.
Line a 33 × 23 cm baking tin with baking parchment. Arrange the biscuits tightly on the base and pour over the cheesecake mixture. Smooth the surface.
Bake at 160°C for about 45 – 50 minutes, until set. If needed, extend the baking time slightly. Remove and allow to cool completely (preferably overnight).
The next day, spread the salted caramel over the cheesecake, reserving a few spoonfuls for decoration. If the caramel has thickened too much, gently warm it to loosen. Top with popcorn (recipe below) and drizzle with the remaining caramel.
Ingredients for the popcorn:
- popcorn kernels
- oil
- salt
Heat a thin layer of oil in a pan. Add a single layer of kernels, cover with a lid, and cook until they begin to pop. Reduce the heat slightly and continue until the popping stops. Remove from the heat, uncover, season with salt and allow to cool.
Enjoy!