There are many opinions and theories as to the origin of Valentine’s Day. One prominent legend started in the time of the Roman Empire with a priest named Saint Valentine. Under the Roman Emperor Claudius’ rule, Saint Valentine was imprisoned. It was while in prison that he fell in love with his jailor’s daughter, to whom he wrote a letter on the day he died and signed it “Love, From your Valentine”. This note is believed to have started the tradition of sending notes, or Valentine’s, to loved ones.
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, now is a good time to think about making a special treat for that special someone in your life. Enjoy the recipe below for a White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen raspberries
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup half-and-half cream
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, mix together cookie crumbs, 3 tablespoons sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9 inch springform pan.
- In a saucepan, combine raspberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, cornstarch, and water. Bring to boil, and continue boiling 5 minutes, or until sauce is thick. Strain sauce through a mesh strainer to remove seeds.
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). In a metal bowl over a pan of simmering water, melt white chocolate chips with half-and-half, stirring occasionally until smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in vanilla and melted white chocolate. Pour half of batter over crust. Spoon 3 tablespoons raspberry sauce over batter. Pour remaining cheesecake batter into pan, and again spoon 3 tablespoons raspberry sauce over the top. Swirl batter with the tip of a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until filling is set. Cool, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 8 hours before removing from pan. Serve with remaining raspberry sauce.
- Linda Tierney, Senior Property Manager