Ostkaka (Swedish Cheesecake)

Ostkaka, also known as Swedish cheesecake, is a traditional and beloved dessert in Sweden. This creamy and rich cheesecake has been a staple in Swedish cuisine for centuries and is often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays. The name "Ostkaka" directly translates to "cheesecake" in Swedish, and it is a popular dessert that can be found in many Swedish households and restaurants.

Ostkaka (Swedish Cheesecake)

Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

1 hr 10 mins

Additional Time:

1 hr

Total Time:

2 hrs 25 mins

Servings:

12

Yield:

1 9x13-inch cheesecake

Ingredients

1 cube raw milk
¾ cup all-purpose flour
1/2 rennet tablet
1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon butter
5 large eggs
1 cup white sugar
1 cup whipping cream

Directions

Step 1

Mix 1 cup of cold milk with 3/4 cup of flour and stir to make a soft paste. Set it aside.

Step 2

Dissolve the 1/2 tablet of rennet in water. Set it aside.

Step 3

Heat the rest of the gallon of milk to lukewarm, 98 to 102 degrees F (36 to 39 degrees C). Remove from heat. Add the soft paste mixture and stir in the dissolved rennet. Stir often until milk begins to set; cover and let stand until firm, about 1 hour.

Step 4

Break up the milk mixture and remove the whey. Do not make the curd too dry and treat with gentle hands so as not to break up the curds too much.

Step 5

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with 1 teaspoon butter.

Step 6

Mix together eggs, sugar, and whipping cream. Add this cream mixture to the strained curd and mix. Pour combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and softly spread it out so that the top of the dessert is flat.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Reduce the heat to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Continue to cook until set and browned on top, about 30 minutes more. Let cool before serving and refrigerate when stored.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

195

Calories

10g

Fat

23g

Carbs

4g

Protein

Complement

The main ingredients in Ostkaka are cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, and sometimes flour, with a hint of almond flavoring. The cheesecake is typically baked in the oven until it has a golden-brown crust and a soft, custard-like center. It is often served with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of fruit compote, such as lingonberries or cherries. The result is a delicious and indulgent dessert that has a slightly tangy and sweet flavor. Whether enjoyed as a special treat or as part of a traditional Swedish meal, Ostkaka is a delightful and iconic dessert that captures the essence of Swedish cuisine.