Kaju Katli Cheesecake – A Festive Twist on a Classic Dessert

This Kaju Katli Cheesecake brings together the beloved flavors of the classic Indian sweet, kaju katli, in a creamy, decadent cheesecake. The cashew paste and powdered cashews give the cheesecake a nutty, rich flavor, while the biscuit base made with crushed biscuits and ghee creates the perfect contrast in texture. The cardamom adds an aromatic touch, complementing the sweetness of the condensed milk and cream cheese filling. Best enjoyed during festive seasons like Diwali, this cheesecake will surely impress your guests with its unique and delightful flavor.

Ingredients:

For the base:

• 2 ½ cups (250g) crushed biscuits
  
  

• ¼ cup (25g) powdered cashews
  
  

• ⅔ cup (130g) melted ghee
  
  

For the filling:

• ¼ cup (50g) cashew paste
  
  

• ¾ cup (180g) heavy cream
  
  

• 1 ½ tbsp (18g) cornflour
  
  

• 2 cups (360g) cream cheese, softened
  
  

• ¼ tsp (1g) ground cardamom
  
  

• 1 ½ cup (484g) condensed milk
  
  

Directions:

1. In a bowl, mix together crushed biscuits, powdered cashews, and melted ghee. Ensure everything is evenly coated in ghee.
   
   

2. Transfer the mixture to a springform pan and use the back of a glass to press it down and cover the base evenly. Place the pan in the refrigerator to set.
   
   

3. To make the cashew paste, pulse the cashews in a food processor until smooth. Set aside.
   
   

4. In a small bowl, mix the heavy cream and cornflour until there are no lumps. Set this mixture aside.
   
   

5. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add ground cardamom and mix well.
   
   

6. Add the cornflour slurry, cashew paste, and condensed milk to the cream cheese mixture. Mix everything together until smooth with no large lumps.
   
   

7. Take the springform pan out of the refrigerator and transfer the cheesecake filling over the prepared biscuit base.
   
   

8. Prepare a hot water bath by heating water on the stove and then placing it in the oven tray. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F) and bake the cheesecake for 40-45 minutes.
   
   

9. Once done, let the cheesecake cool completely before removing it from the pan. Slice and enjoy!
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: 320 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 30g
  
  

• Protein: 8g
  
  

• Fat: 20g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 8g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 50mg
  
  

• Sodium: 120mg
  
  

• Potassium: 150mg
  
  

• Fiber: 2g
  
  

• Sugar: 18g