| Prep: 35 mins | Cook: 55 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 748 | 44g | 25g | 78g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 67g | 2g | 11g | 0.5g |
I have to admit, one of my all-time favorite creations is my Lychee and Lime Cheesecake. A decadently creamy fusion treat that embodies my love for eclectic flavors and bold taste profiles. The sweet musky taste of lychee combined with the tangy kick of lime brings an irresistible tropical touch to the classic southern dessert.
Unconventional Fusion, Familiar Comfort
Being raised in Atlanta by my Nigerian parents allowed me an unprecedented glimpse into the realm of gastronomic diversity. It was this unique interplay of Afro-Southern cuisines that prompted me to experiment with the traditional cheesecake recipe, only to find a beautiful culinary harmony within the Lychee and Lime Cheesecake.
I cannot help myself but be in awe of how the rich creaminess of the cream cheese plays up against the exotic sweetness of lychee, elevated by the zesty fervor of fresh lime zest. The end result is a fantastic flavor roller coaster packed into each bite and smothered with the homemade lychee syrup. This exotic delicacy is reminiscent of some West African desserts that often employ tropical fruits, bringing a sense of homely nostalgia.
As Tasty As It Is Healthy
What makes me appreciate this Lychee and Lime Cheesecake even more is its unexpected health edges. Lychee, the star player in this treat, is not only delicious but also packed with significant health benefits. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, offering strong antioxidant protection, which can contribute towards radiant skin and robust immunity.
The lime zest and juice not only impart their lively zest but are also known for their digestive and heart health benefits. Moreover, utilizing a reasonable portion of sugar and the inclusion of water to create the lychee syrup helps keep the dessert palate-friendly without unnecessary calories.
A slice of this sublime Lychee and Lime cheesecake would make an outstanding palate cleanser after a hearty southern meal. Alternatively, it can be a show-stopping centerpiece of a cozy afternoon tea or simply an indulgent personal treat on a lazy weekend.
What You’ll Need
- 12 graham crackers
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Zest of 2 limes
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 (20 oz) can lychees, drained
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar for lychee syrup
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Then, grease the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan.
Step Two
In a food processor, process the graham crackers until finely ground. Add the melted butter, salt and 2 tablespoons of sugar to the ground crackers and pulse until the mixture is well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.
Step Three
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar, beating until well incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the sour cream, cornstarch, lime zest, lime juice and vanilla extract, and beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step Four
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the pan. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top appears dull.
Step Five
In the meantime, prepare the lychee syrup. In a saucepan, combine the drained lychees, water and 1/2 cup of sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture has reduced to a syrupy consistency. Allow it to cool.
Step Six
Once the cheesecake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Prior to serving, top the cheesecake with the lychee syrup.
Step Seven
Enjoy your Lychee and Lime Cheesecake!
