Authentic Polish Sernik (Cheesecake) Recipe

Ingredients

1.5 pounds of ricotta cheese
1 cup of sugar
1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
3 large eggs
Zest of 1 lemon
Pinch of salt
1.5 cups of graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons of melted butter
2 tablespoons of sugar (for the crust)

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar together until well combined.
Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust of the cheesecake.
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, eggs, lemon zest, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
Pour this mixture over the crust in the springform pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and lightly browned on top.
Allow the cheesecake to cool in the pan before removing the sides of the pan.
Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, before serving.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the ingredients together.
Springform Pan - A 9-inch pan with removable sides, used for baking the cheesecake.
Whisk - A utensil used for mixing and whisking ingredients together.
Spatula - A tool for scraping the sides of the bowl and smoothing the cheesecake mixture.
Measuring Cups - Used to measure the sugar and flour accurately.
Measuring Spoons - Used to measure the vanilla extract and salt accurately.
Zester or Grater - For grating the lemon zest.
Oven - Used for baking the cheesecake.
Refrigerator - For chilling the cheesecake before serving.

Recipe variations

Use a different crust, such as crushed chocolate cookies or almond meal mixed with melted butter.
Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the cheesecake mixture for a chocolate twist.
Add fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, to the cheesecake batter before baking.
Top the chilled cheesecake with a fruit compote or caramel sauce.
For a savory twist, omit the sugar and lemon zest, and instead add grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs to the cheesecake mixture.
Make it a vegan cheesecake by substituting the ricotta cheese with blended silken tofu and using a plant-based butter substitute for the crust.
Create a spiced version by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the cheesecake mixture.
Make individual-sized mini cheesecakes by using a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners.
Add a layer of creamy chocolate ganache on top of the chilled cheesecake.

Recipe overview

This is a recipe for Sernik, a traditional Polish cheesecake known for its smooth, creamy texture and delicate flavor. Made with ricotta cheese and flavored with a hint of lemon, this dessert is a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. In this recipe, you'll learn how to make a simple graham cracker crust and a delicious, velvety cheesecake filling. The process is straightforward and easy to follow, so even if you're new to baking, you can make this dessert with confidence. Expect a deliciously rich and satisfying cheesecake that your family and friends will love.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta? Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese if desired.
Can I use a different type of crumb for the crust? Yes, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or gingersnap cookies instead of graham cracker crumbs.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the cheesecake? Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, fruit preserves, or even a swirl of caramel sauce to customize the flavor of your cheesecake.
How can I prevent cracks from forming on top of the cheesecake? To prevent cracks, make sure not to overmix the batter and avoid opening the oven door during baking. You can also place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven to create a humid environment.
Can I freeze the cheesecake? Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the ingredients together.
9-inch Springform Pan - A round cake pan with removable sides, ideal for making cheesecakes.
Measuring Cups - Used to measure the sugar, flour, and melted butter accurately.
Measuring Spoons - Used to measure the vanilla extract and salt accurately.
Whisk - Used to mix the ingredients together and create a smooth batter.
Spatula - Used to scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
Zester or Microplane - Used to grate the lemon zest.
Oven - Used to bake the cheesecake.
Refrigerator - Used to chill the cheesecake before serving.

Origin stories

Sernik, the rich and creamy cheesecake we're preparing today, is a culinary gem from Poland, where it is considered the queen of desserts. Its origins trace back to the Roman times, but it was in the Polish royal courts of the medieval era that Sernik truly gained its aristocratic status. The key ingredient, farmer's cheese, was plentiful in the Polish countryside, but it was the skillful hands of the royal chefs that transformed this humble ingredient into a dessert fit for a king. Today, Sernik is a beloved traditional sweet treat enjoyed on special occasions. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, where basic ingredients combine to create a rich, satisfying dessert, just as they have done for centuries in the Polish kitchens.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.