Steaming Cheesecake: The Perfect Timing For A Decadent Dessert

Cheesecake is a beloved dessert, but did you know you can make it in a steamer? This cooking method results in a soft, moist, and fluffy cake. Here's a guide on how long to cook cheesecake in a steamer, so you can enjoy a delicious, creamy treat. The cooking time will vary depending on the recipe and number of servings, but generally, it takes around 15 minutes to steam a single-serving cheesecake. For a larger cheesecake, it can take up to an hour or more. So, get your steamer ready and indulge in a decadent, steamed cheesecake!

How to make a cheesecake in a steamer

Ingredients:

• Cream cheese
• Butter
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Graham crackers
• Lemon juice
• Self-raising flour (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Vanilla extract (optional)
• Salt (optional)
• Cornstarch or flour (optional)

Method:

• Prepare your steamer: Pour water into the base of your steamer and bring it to a boil over high heat.
• Make the crust: Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs, either by hand or using a food processor. Mix in melted butter until the crumbs resemble wet sand. Press the mixture into the bottom of your ramekins or mugs, using your fingers or the bottom of a small glass. You can pre-bake the crust for 8-10 minutes in the oven if you prefer a crunchier texture.
• Make the filling: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, followed by the eggs, and mix until well combined. You can also add a teaspoon of lemon juice for extra tanginess. If you like, you can also add a small amount of cornstarch or flour to the mixture to help prevent cracking.
• Assemble and steam: Pour the cream cheese mixture on top of the crust in your ramekins or mugs. Carefully place the ramekins or mugs into the steamer, ensuring they are secure and will not tip over. Cover with a lid and steam for around 15 minutes.
• Cool and serve: Remove the cheesecakes from the steamer and allow them to cool. You can enjoy them warm or cold. For a firmer texture, chill the cheesecakes in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Tips:

• To make removing the cheesecakes from the ramekins or mugs easier, you can line the dishes with strips of parchment paper before adding the crust mixture.
• For a more indulgent treat, top your cheesecakes with fruit compote, chocolate ganache, or fresh fruit.
• If you want to bake your cheesecake in the oven, simply wrap your springform pan in foil and place it in a roasting pan filled with a few inches of water. Bake for around 50-70 minutes, depending on the size of your pan.

How long to cook a single-serving cheesecake in a steamer

The cooking time for a single-serving cheesecake in a steamer will vary depending on the size and type of steamer used, as well as the recipe followed. However, as a general guide, here are some instructions on how to cook a single-serving cheesecake in a steamer:

Prepare the steamer

Firstly, ensure that you have a steamer basket or insert that fits comfortably inside your pot or saucepan. Add enough water to the pot so that it reaches just below the steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.

Prepare the cheesecake batter

For a single-serving cheesecake, you will need the following ingredients:

• Graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuit crumbs for the base
• Butter, melted
• Sugar
• Cream cheese, at room temperature
• Eggs, at room temperature
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon zest and juice (optional)
• Sour cream or heavy cream (optional)

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of your chosen ramekin or small baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix together the room-temperature cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in the eggs, vanilla, and lemon zest and juice (if using). Finally, stir in the sour cream or heavy cream (if using).

Steam the cheesecake

Pour the batter on top of the prepared base in the ramekin. Carefully place the ramekin in the steamer basket, ensuring that it is stable and secure. Cover the pot and steam for 20-30 minutes. The cheesecake is ready when the edges are set, but the centre still has a slight wobble.

Cool and chill the cheesecake

Remove the ramekin from the steamer and set it on a wire rack to cool. Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it and transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for allowing the cheesecake to set and achieve the perfect texture.

Serve the cheesecake

When ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. You can serve the cheesecake directly from the ramekin, or carefully transfer it to a serving dish. Enjoy your delicious, single-serving steamed cheesecake!

How to prepare a steamer for cooking a cheesecake

To prepare a steamer for cooking a cheesecake, you'll need to follow a few simple steps. Here's a guide to help you get started:

Firstly, gather your ingredients and prepare your cheesecake batter. This typically includes cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and other flavourings such as lemon juice or vanilla extract. You'll also need to make a crust, which usually consists of graham cracker crumbs, butter, and sugar.

Next, you'll need to prepare your steamer. If using a stovetop steamer, fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a boil. If using an electric steamer, fill the water reservoir to the indicated level and turn it on.

While waiting for the water to boil, you can assemble your cheesecake. Line a springform pan with parchment paper and press your crust mixture into the bottom. Then, pour your cheesecake batter on top of the crust.

Once the water is boiling, carefully place the springform pan into the steamer basket or rack. Ensure that the water level is below the top of the pan to avoid any leakage. Cover the pan with aluminium foil to prevent condensation from dripping onto the cheesecake.

Set the timer and let the cheesecake steam. The cooking time will depend on the desired doneness of your cheesecake and the size of your springform pan. For a 9-inch pan, steam for 50 to 60 minutes. For a 10-inch pan, steam for 55 to 55 minutes.

When the timer goes off, carefully remove the springform pan from the steamer and place it on a wire rack to cool. It's important to let the cheesecake cool slowly to prevent cracking. Leave it in the turned-off oven with the door ajar for about an hour, then remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.

Finally, transfer your cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill it for at least four hours or overnight before serving. This step is crucial for the cheesecake to set and achieve the perfect texture.

How to serve a steamed cheesecake

Ingredients

To make a steamed cheesecake, you will need the following ingredients:

• Cream cheese
• Butter
• Cream or milk
• Caster sugar
• Eggs
• Self-raising flour
• Graham crackers (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Lemon juice (optional)

Preparation

First, prepare your steamer by pouring water into the base and bringing it to a boil over high heat.

Next, prepare your cheesecake mixture. Place the cream cheese, butter, and cream or milk in a heat-proof bowl and heat in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir well, then add the sugar and mix until smooth. Add the egg and mix again. Finally, add the self-raising flour and combine well.

Cooking

Grease your ramekins or mugs with butter, and pour the mixture into them. Place the ramekins or mugs in the steamer, cover with a lid, and cook for around 15 minutes.

Serving

Allow the cheesecakes to cool, then serve warm or cold. You can serve them straight from the ramekin or mug, or use a spatula to transfer them to a plate or board.

Toppings

You can serve your steamed cheesecake plain, or add a variety of toppings. Fresh fruit, chocolate ganache, salted caramel, lemon curd, or a fruit compote or syrup all work well.

Storage

Any leftover cheesecake should be stored in the refrigerator and eaten within a few days. You can also freeze individual cheesecakes for up to three months.

How to remove a steamed cheesecake from its mould

Removing a Steamed Cheesecake from its Mould

Once your steamed cheesecake is cooked and ready to be devoured, it's important to carefully remove it from its mould to ensure the perfect presentation. Here are the steps to smoothly remove your cheesecake:

Begin by allowing the cheesecake to cool down. It's ideal to let it reach room temperature before attempting to remove it from the mould. This step is crucial as it helps the cheesecake set and firm up, reducing the chances of it breaking apart during the removal process.

Next, you'll need a flat, thin utensil, such as a butter knife or offset spatula. Gently run the utensil around the edges of the cheesecake to loosen it from the sides of the mould. Be careful not to cut into the cheesecake, simply use a gentle sawing motion to separate the cheesecake from the mould.

After loosening the edges, place a plate or serving dish over the top of the mould. Hold the mould and plate firmly together and carefully flip them over. The cheesecake should now be resting on the plate with the mould covering it.

Now, slowly and gently, lift the mould away from the cheesecake. If you've greased your mould adequately before baking, this process should be relatively easy, and the cheesecake should slide out smoothly. In case it seems stuck, gently run your butter knife or spatula along the bottom edges to loosen it further before trying again.

Finally, your steamed cheesecake should now be successfully transferred to the serving plate. If desired, you can add some garnishes or toppings to enhance its appearance. Enjoy your delicious, perfectly presented steamed cheesecake!

By following these steps, you can ensure that your steamed cheesecake retains its beautiful shape and texture, making it a delightful treat for both the eyes and the taste buds!

Frequently asked questions