Name: Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h 30 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: Polish
Ingredients: 1 kg twaróg (polish quark cheese), well-drained; 200 g crushed graham crackers; 3 tbsp melted butter; 600 g strawberries, hulled and halved; 1 strawberry jelly packet; 2 tablespoons gelatin; 1/2 cup milk; 150 g heavy cream (30% or 36%); 1 packet vanilla sugar; 3/4 cup powdered sugar

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

The delightful Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake is a stunning dessert that effortlessly combines a creamy twaróg base with the vibrant freshness of strawberries. This Polish cheesecake, known as Sernik z Truskawkami, is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy family gathering. The beauty of this dessert lies in its smooth texture and the luscious strawberry topping, making it a crowd-pleaser that can easily become your new favorite.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake

I first discovered this recipe at a local Polish festival, captivated by the way it shimmered under the sunlight, beckoning dessert lovers like a siren’s call. The moment I took a bite, the balance of tangy cheese and sweet strawberry jelly transported me to a delightful place filled with nostalgia and comfort. Every forkful was a reminder of simple pleasures, and that’s exactly why I can’t wait for you to try this Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prepping this cheesecake takes just 30 minutes and only a few easy steps.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of creamy twaróg and fresh strawberries creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: With its bright colors and glossy finish, it’s sure to impress at gatherings.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for any occasion, from dessert at dinner to a sweet treat on a warm afternoon.
Diet-Friendly Options: While this recipe is rich and indulgent, you can adjust it to fit various dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 kg twaróg (Polish quark cheese): This creamy cheese is crucial to achieving that signature cheesecake texture. If unavailable, use a mix of cream cheese and ricotta for a similar effect.
200 g crushed graham crackers: These provide a delicious crunchy base. Feel free to use digestive biscuits or Oreos if you’d like a different flavor.
3 tbsp melted butter: This binds the crust together and adds richness. Ensure it’s unsalted for best results.
600 g strawberries: Fresh strawberries are essential for a bright, fruity flavor. You can substitute with other berries if desired.
1 packet strawberry jelly: This adds sweetness and a glossy finish. You can opt for a sugar-free variety if you prefer a lighter version.
2 tablespoons gelatin: This helps the cheesecake set perfectly without baking. Make sure you’re using unflavored gelatin.
1/2 cup milk: Whole milk works best, but you can use low-fat for a lighter version.
150 g heavy cream (30% or 36%): This thick cream contributes to the cheesecake’s richness and silky mouthfeel.
1 packet vanilla sugar: This is often found in Polish recipes. If you can’t find it, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract instead.
3/4 cup powdered sugar: This sweetens the filling without grittiness, dissolving beautifully into the cream.

How to Make Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake

Prepare the jelly: Start by preparing the strawberry jelly according to the package instructions, reducing the water by 50 ml for a firmer set. Once prepared, pour it into a bowl and allow it to cool completely. This jelly will be the crowning glory of your cheesecake.

Prep the strawberries: Rinse the strawberries thoroughly and dry them gently. Hull them and slice them in half. This will enhance their beauty when arranged on top of your dessert.

Prepare the crust: Line the bottom of a 26 cm springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Combine the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter in a bowl, mixing them well. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even crust. Using the back of a spoon helps pack it tightly.

Dissolve the gelatin: In a small saucepan, heat the milk until it’s warm but not boiling. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of gelatin evenly over the top, stirring continuously until it dissolves completely. A smooth consistency is key for incorporating this into the cheesecake mix.

Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the twaróg, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla sugar. Blend these ingredients together until smooth and well integrated. This mixture should be creamy and luscious.

Incorporate gelatin mixture: Gradually pour the warm gelatin into the cheese mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly, ensuring no lumps remain. The warmth helps everything blend seamlessly.

Fold in the strawberries: Carefully fold in two-thirds of the halved strawberries into the creamy mixture. This adds bursts of strawberry flavor throughout the cheesecake, ensuring every bite is delicious. Pour the entire mixture on top of your prepared crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.

Add the remaining strawberries and jelly: Once the cheesecake has chilled, arrange the remaining halved strawberries on the top, artistically placing them as you desire. Finally, pour the cooled jelly over the strawberries, allowing it to flow elegantly, covering them completely. Return the cheesecake to the fridge and let it set for at least three hours.

Storing & Reheating

To store your Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake, keep it in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap, for up to 5 days. If you need to store it longer, it can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy again, gently thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Note that while the texture may soften a bit, the rich flavors will remain delightful.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Make sure your twaróg is well-drained to avoid a watery cheesecake.
To avoid lumps in your filling, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
If you prefer a fruitier flavor, feel free to mix in more strawberries or even other berries.
For added depth, consider a splash of lemon juice in the filling to brighten the flavors.
This cheesecake can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for parties or special gatherings.

The Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake is more than just a delicious dessert; it encapsulates the joy of creating something beautiful and enjoyable to share with loved ones. With its visually stunning layers and that delightful mix of creaminess and fruity sweetness, it’ll capture hearts and taste buds alike. Don’t hesitate to explore with flavors and textures; after all, cooking is about making classics your own. Enjoy every moment of making and savoring this treat!

Recipe FAQs

How long does it take to set the cheesecake?

The cheesecake needs about 3 hours to fully set in the refrigerator. For best results, chill it overnight if you have the time.

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! While strawberries add a lovely flavor and color, you can replace them with raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches depending on your preferences and what’s in season.

What if I can’t find twaróg?

You can substitute twaróg with a mix of cream cheese and ricotta. Aim for a similar creaminess in texture for the best results.

Can this cheesecake be made in advance?

Yes! It’s ideal for making a day ahead of time. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap after it’s set, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

More Desserts & Appetizers Recipes

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Danae
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 210 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Desserts & Appetizers
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: Polish

Print Recipe

Description

This Strawberry Jelly Cheesecake features a delightful combination of creamy twaróg, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy base, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or a sweet treat at home. With simple steps and no baking required, this cheesecake is perfect for anyone looking for an easy and mouthwatering dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

1 kg twaróg (polish quark cheese), well-drained
200 g crushed graham crackers
3 tbsp melted butter
600 g strawberries, hulled and halved
1 strawberry jelly packet
2 tablespoons gelatin
1/2 cup milk
150 g heavy cream (30% or 36%)
1 packet vanilla sugar
3/4 cup powdered sugar

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the strawberry jelly per the package instructions, reducing the water by 50 ml. Pour into a bowl and let it cool.
Rinse, dry, hull, and halve the strawberries.
Line the base of a 26 cm springform pan with parchment paper. Mix the crushed crackers with melted butter, then pack them at the bottom of the springform using a spoon.
Warm the milk and dissolve the gelatin in it, stirring continuously.
In a large bowl, mix twaróg, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla sugar until well combined.
Gradually add the warm gelatin mixture to the cheese mixture, and mix thoroughly for a smooth consistency.
Gently fold in 2/3 of the halved strawberries to the cheese mixture. Pour it over the biscuit base and smooth the top. Chill for 30 minutes.
Arrange the remaining strawberries on top of the cheesecake. Pour the cooled jelly over the strawberries and chill until fully set, approximately 3 hours.