Page Contents
Surprising Things You Didn’t Know About Cheesecake
Cheesecake is a popular dessert with a rich and creamy texture that makes it a favorite among dessert lovers. But did you know that there are some surprising facts and stories behind this delicious treat? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating history, famous variations, and unique aspects of cheesecake that you probably didn’t know. So grab a slice of cheesecake and prepare to be amazed!
The ancient origins of cheesecake
Cheesecake has a long and storied history that can be traced back to ancient times. According to Cheesecake.com, the very first cheesecakes may have originated on the Greek island of Samos some 4,000 years ago. The oldest surviving recipe, written by Athenaeus in 230 A.D., consisted of wheat flour, honey and cheese. The Romans later adopted the recipe from the Greeks, adding eggs, and it spread throughout Europe during the Middle Ages. It wasn’t until the 18th century that cheesecakes began to resemble the ones we know today, and cream cheese wasn’t introduced until the late 19th century.
The birth of New York cheesecake
If you’re a fan of dense and rich cheesecake, you can thank the New Yorkers for perfecting this type of dessert. The original New York cheesecake can be credited to German-born delicatessen owner Arnold Reuben, who is also known for inventing the famous Reuben sandwich. However, the most iconic New York cheesecakes were served at Lindy’s, a well-known restaurant. Lindy’s recipe called for an egg crust and a filling of cream cheese, sugar, flour, eggs, and cream flavored with vanilla, lemon, and orange zest. These classic New York cheesecakes are pure and unadulterated, with no added flavor swirls or toppings.
Frank Sinatra’s favorite cheesecake
Legendary singer Frank Sinatra had a favorite type of cheesecake. His favorite dessert was a lemon cheesecake made with ricotta, a suitable alternative to cream cheese. The now-defunct Patsy’s, a Manhattan restaurant said to be Sinatra’s favorite, had a recipe for Patsy’s Lemon Ricotta Torte that called for ricotta, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Another recipe can be found online called “Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake alla Sinatra,” which includes lemon juice and mascarpone and is served in a graham cracker crust. Sinatra’s love of lemon cheesecake demonstrates the versatility and deliciousness of different cheesecake variations.
Cheesecake and Celebrity Culture
Known for its extensive menu and decadent cheesecakes, The Cheesecake Factory has surprisingly become a favorite among celebrities. Despite its “middle class fancy” reputation, stars like Ellen DeGeneres, Kimye (Kim Kardashian and Kanye West), Drake, Britney Spears, and Steph Curry have all dined at Cheesecake Factory locations. Former NFL quarterback Vince Young was known for his significant spending at the restaurant, reportedly dropping $5,000 a week and even splurging $15,000 on a single meal. The Cheesecake Factory’s celebrity appeal underscores its widespread popularity and indulgent offerings.
Exploring Savory Cheesecakes
When we think of cheesecake, we often think of sweet and dessert-like flavors. However, savory cheesecakes are a lesser-known option that offer a unique twist. The Cheesecake Factory has an extensive menu of 35 different sweet cheesecakes, but they do not offer any savory options. Savory cheesecakes, like an adult version of the cheese ball appetizer, combine cream cheese with various flavorings such as other cheeses, chiles or bacon. The mixture is made into a batter with the addition of eggs and can be poured into a crust of crackers or crushed tortilla chips. Savory cheesecakes can even be “frosted” with sour cream or Laughing Cow cheese. These unconventional cheesecakes make for a delightful and unexpected culinary experience.
Conclusion
Cheesecake is a dessert with a rich history and a wide range of flavors and variations. From its ancient origins in Greece to its modern popularity among celebrities, cheesecake has captured the hearts and taste buds of dessert lovers around the world. Whether you prefer the classic New York style, the tangy lemon ricotta, or even a savory twist, cheesecake offers endless possibilities for indulgence. So the next time you enjoy a slice of cheesecake, consider the surprising stories and facts behind this beloved dessert.
FAQS
Cheesecake can be traced back to ancient Greece, with the earliest known recipe dating back 4,000 years to the Greek island of Samos. The Romans also adopted and expanded the recipe, eventually spreading cheesecake throughout Europe during the Middle Ages.
What is the difference between New York cheesecake and other cheesecakes?
New York cheesecake is known for its dense and rich texture. Unlike other varieties, it typically does not have any added flavor swirls or toppings. It often has an egg crust and a filling of cream cheese, sugar, flour, eggs and cream, flavored with vanilla, lemon and orange zest.
Has cream cheese always been used in cheesecake?
No, cream cheese has not always been used in cheesecakes. In fact, cream cheese as we know it today wasn’t invented until the late 19th century. Before that, other types of cheese, such as ricotta or myzithra, were commonly used in cheesecake recipes.
Are there savory variations of cheesecake?
Yes, there are savory variations of cheesecake that offer a unique twist on the traditional sweet dessert. Savory cheesecakes incorporate ingredients such as other cheeses, chiles, or bacon and are often served as appetizers. They offer a delightful and unexpected culinary experience.
Why is The Cheesecake Factory a favorite of celebrities?
The Cheesecake Factory has gained popularity among celebrities because of its extensive menu and indulgent cheesecakes. Despite its casual reputation, many celebrities enjoy dining at The Cheesecake Factory for its wide variety of options and decadent desserts.
Do you have a famous cheesecake recipe?
While we cannot share a specific recipe in this article, there are countless cheesecake recipes available online, each with its own unique twist. Whether you prefer a classic New York style or a flavored variation, a quick search will yield a variety of recipes to satisfy your cheesecake cravings.