Servings: 4 people
Prep Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Medium
Why You’ll Love It
- Comforting and nostalgic – This recipe brings back memories of family gatherings, special occasions, and Sunday lunches in Asturias.
- No baking required – Unlike classic baked cheesecakes, this version sets on the stovetop and in the fridge, making it easy and stress-free.
- Smooth and creamy texture – The combination of cream cheese, milk, and heavy cream creates a melt-in-your-mouth dessert.
- Perfect for any occasion – Ideal for birthdays, holidays, dinner parties, or just a sweet treat with coffee.
What Makes It Special
This traditional Tarta de Queso is a staple dessert in many Asturian homes and restaurants. It’s rich and creamy, yet refreshingly light. What makes it unique is the use of cuajada (a Spanish-style rennet thickener) and a cookie or sponge base, topped with caramel for a beautiful finish. It’s versatile, foolproof, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 glass of whole milk
- ½ glass of sugar
- ½ liter of heavy cream (or liquid whipping cream)
- 200 grams (about 7 oz) of Philadelphia cream cheese
- 1 packet of Spanish-style powdered rennet (cuajada) or substitute with unflavored gelatin if not available
- Liquid caramel (for the mold)
- A few cookies or sponge cake pieces for the base and topping
Instructions:
- Combine the ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the milk, sugar, cream, cream cheese, and powdered rennet. Stir gently and thoroughly until smooth.
- Cook the mixture: Pour the mixture into a saucepan and heat over medium heat. Stir continuously until it thickens slightly—this will take a few minutes.
- Prepare the mold: Coat the bottom of your preferred mold with liquid caramel.
- Pour and chill: Once the mixture has thickened, pour it into the caramel-lined mold. Crush a few cookies or pieces of sponge cake and sprinkle them over the top.
- Refrigerate: Place the cheesecake in the fridge to cool and set completely.
- Unmold and decorate: Carefully turn the cheesecake out onto a serving plate. Decorate to your liking—add chocolate shavings, a layer of strawberry jam, or extra crumbled cookies for a beautiful and delicious finish.
This creamy, no-bake cheesecake is a slice of Asturian tradition—simple, comforting, and full of flavor. Whether enjoyed on a quiet afternoon or shared at a family celebration, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home too.