Ingredients

For the Base:

• 150 g of plain shortbread cookies
• 60 g of unsalted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 10 g of gelatin
• 40 ml of cold water
• 400 g of cream cheese or curd cheese
• 75 g of sugar
• 100 ml of cream (10–33% fat)

For the Mandarin Jelly:

• 10 g of gelatin
• 50 ml of cold water
• 6 mandarins
• 40 g of sugar

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes (active cooking)
• Chilling Time: 6 hours
• Total Time: 7 hours
• Servings: 6–8 slices
• Calories per Serving: ~280 kcal

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

1. Crush the shortbread cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
2. Melt the butter in a saucepan or microwave and mix it thoroughly with the cookie crumbs until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 15 cm springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass for best results.
4. Chill the base in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it bloom for 5–10 minutes.
2. Heat the gelatin gently in a microwave or over a water bath until fully dissolved. Do not let it boil.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the cream until it reaches soft peaks.
5. Gradually fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Then, stir in the dissolved gelatin, ensuring it’s evenly incorporated.
6. Pour the filling over the chilled cookie base, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Place the cheesecake back into the refrigerator to set for at least 2 hours.

3. Prepare the Mandarin Jelly

1. Bloom the gelatin by sprinkling it over the cold water and letting it sit for 5–10 minutes.
2. Peel the mandarins and blend them into a puree. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp or seeds.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the mandarin juice and sugar. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves.
4. Stir in the bloomed gelatin, ensuring it dissolves completely. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
5. Carefully pour the cooled mandarin jelly over the set cheesecake filling. Return the cheesecake to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours, or until the jelly layer is firm.

4. Serve and Enjoy

1. Once fully set, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
2. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat slices. Serve chilled and garnish with mandarin segments or fresh mint, if desired.

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

Mandarin Cheesecake with Tangerine Jelly is a dessert that feels both classic and contemporary. The creamy cheesecake has been a beloved treat for centuries, cherished for its versatility and ability to pair beautifully with various flavors. The addition of mandarins adds a modern twist, offering a refreshing burst of citrus that balances the richness of the filling.

What makes this recipe truly timeless is its universal appeal. The balance of textures and flavors makes it suitable for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual tea-time indulgences. Its visual appeal, with the bright orange jelly layer, makes it an eye-catching centerpiece that’s as delightful to admire as it is to eat.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 120mg

FAQs

1. Can I use other fruits for the jelly layer?
Yes! This recipe works beautifully with fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or even passionfruit. Simply adjust the sugar to balance the natural sweetness of the chosen fruit.

2. Can I substitute the cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese, curd cheese or mascarpone are excellent alternatives. For a lighter version, you can use ricotta or Greek yogurt.

3. How do I prevent the jelly layer from seeping into the cheesecake?
Ensure the cheesecake filling is fully set before adding the jelly layer. Pour the jelly slowly over the back of a spoon to prevent disturbing the surface.

Tips for Perfect Mandarin Cheesecake

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and cream to come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother filling.
2. Use Fresh Mandarins: Fresh mandarins yield the best flavor for the jelly. Avoid canned mandarins, as they may alter the taste and texture.
3. Chill Between Layers: Patience is key! Allow each layer to set fully before adding the next to achieve distinct, clean layers.
4. Springform Pan: A springform pan is essential for easy removal and professional-looking results. Line the bottom with parchment paper for added ease.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake (without the jelly layer) for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding the jelly and serving.

Conclusion

Mandarin Cheesecake with Tangerine Jelly is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience that celebrates the joy of baking and the beauty of fresh, simple ingredients. From the buttery crunch of the cookie base to the creamy, tangy filling and the shimmering citrus jelly, this cheesecake is a masterpiece of flavors and textures.

Whether you’re baking to impress guests or treating yourself to something special, this recipe offers an opportunity to create a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to adapt to different occasions, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire.

Take your time to enjoy the process of making this cheesecake, from crushing the cookies to pouring the glossy jelly layer. Each step brings you closer to a dessert that’s as satisfying to make as it is to share. With its vibrant flavors and stunning presentation, Mandarin Cheesecake with Tangerine Jelly is a recipe that’s bound to become a favorite for years to come.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to indulge in a dessert that’s as delightful as it is memorable. Your taste buds—and anyone lucky enough to share it with you—will thank you!