Discover Lviv's culinary gem: the creamy allure of Lviv cheesecake

Lviv cheesecake is one of those sentimental baked goods, especially for the residents of Lviv. Anyone who has tried it even once will not forget its taste. It is light, fluffy, and extremely creamy. It captivates from the first bite. You can easily prepare it at home, as most of the necessary ingredients are likely already in your kitchen cupboard.

During the partition period, Lviv was one of the most important scientific and cultural centres of Galicia, which is reflected in its culture and cuisine. Lviv cheesecake is a true source of pride for the residents of Lviv. It is served in almost every café or restaurant.

The recipe is simple and based on readily available ingredients, such as eggs, cheese, raisins, and lemon zest. After baking, it is topped with a chocolate glaze, which perfectly complements the cheesy, slightly citrusy centre. It's impossible to resist.

Ingredients:

Cake:

• 450 grams of cream cheese for cheesecake,
• 3 large eggs,
• 150 grams fine sugar,
• 1 package of vanilla sugar or a tablespoon of vanilla extract,
• 1 tablespoon of potato starch,
• 50 grams raisins,
• 1 lemon.

Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons butter,
• 2 tablespoons sour cream,
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar,
• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder.

Preparation:

1. Place the cheese in a large bowl. Add the eggs, sugar, vanilla sugar, and starch to it. Mix everything into a smooth mass.
2. Boil water. Pour it over the raisins and let them sit for 5-10 minutes until they soften.
3. Blanch the lemon and grate it. Add it to the mixture along with the drained, softened raisins.
4. Pour the prepared mixture into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Place it in an oven preheated to 190°C and set it to bake with heat from the top and bottom.
6. Bake the cake for 45-50 minutes. After baking, slightly open the oven door and leave the cake in the oven until it cools completely.