Why This Cake Is So Special
This cake is loved because it combines:
- Creamy custard-style filling
- Light cheesecake texture
- Soft golden crust
- Elegant bakery look
- Balanced sweetness
It feels rich without being heavy, making it perfect for dessert or afternoon coffee.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup butter (cold)
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
For the Creamy Filling
- 500 g cream cheese or ricotta
- 1 cup thick yogurt or sour cream
- ¾ cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ cup milk or cream
For Decoration
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Choosing the Right Cheese
Best choices:
- Cream cheese → smooth and rich
- Ricotta → lighter texture
- Mascarpone → extra creamy
Make sure cheese is:
- Room temperature
- Soft and smooth
This prevents lumps in the filling.
Preparing the Crust Dough
In a bowl mix:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Sugar
Add cold butter and rub with fingers until mixture looks crumbly.
Add egg and gently combine into dough.
Do not overwork — soft dough creates tender crust.
Shaping the Crust
Grease a deep round cake pan.
Press dough onto:
- Bottom
- Sides (forming high walls like in image)
The sides hold the creamy filling and create the thick crust appearance.
Making the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl combine:
- Cream cheese
- Yogurt or sour cream
- Sugar
Beat until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
Add:
- Vanilla
- Cornstarch
- Milk or cream
Mix until silky and creamy.
Filling the Cake
Pour creamy mixture into prepared crust.
Smooth the top gently.
The filling will puff slightly during baking and settle as it cools.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F).
Bake for:
- 50–60 minutes
Look for:
- Light golden top
- Slight jiggle in center
- Firm edges
Avoid overbaking — center should stay creamy.
Cooling Properly
Turn off oven and leave cake inside for 10 minutes with door slightly open.
Then cool at room temperature.
This prevents cracking and helps texture remain silky.
Chilling for Best Texture
Refrigerate for:
- At least 3 hours (or overnight)
Chilling allows filling to fully set and flavors to develop.
Adding the Final Touch
Before serving:
- Dust generously with powdered sugar
This gives elegant bakery-style finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Fresh berries
- Fruit sauce
- Coffee or tea
- Light whipped cream
Best served cold.
Storage Tips
Refrigerator
- Covered container
- Up to 4 days
Freezer
- Freeze slices individually
- Up to 1 month
Thaw slowly in refrigerator.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing filling
- Overbaking
- Using cold cheese
- Skipping chilling time
- Thin crust edges
These details affect texture and appearance.
Flavor Variations
Try these twists:
Lemon version: add lemon zest.
Vanilla bean: use vanilla seeds.
Berry swirl: add berry puree.
Chocolate: add cocoa powder to filling.
Very easy to customize.
Tips for Bakery-Style Results
- Use room-temperature ingredients
- Bake slowly at lower heat
- Cool gradually
- Chill overnight
- Dust sugar just before serving
These tips create smooth creamy texture.
Why This Cake Is Perfect for Special Occasions
This dessert works well because:
- Elegant presentation
- Rich but light taste
- Make-ahead friendly
- Easy to slice and serve
Ideal for gatherings or celebrations.
Final Thoughts
This creamy custard cheese cake is soft, luxurious, and beautifully balanced between creamy filling and tender crust. Its rich texture and simple elegance make it feel like a professional bakery dessert while still being achievable at home.