What makes this cheesecake especially appealing is how easily it can be served. Whether in mini jars for individual servings or as a full cake, it’s portable and simple to prepare with minimal prep time. With the addition of rose syrup and a hint of saffron, the flavor is elevated, offering a surprise in each bite. This dessert can be scaled up for a larger crowd or served in smaller portions, making it versatile for festive parties or intimate occasions. The combination of traditional flavors with a modern twist creates a dessert that will impress everyone from sweet-tooth to those seeking a more sophisticated indulgence.
From the gorgeous layers to the luxurious creaminess, Gulab Jamun Cheesecake is an impressive example of culinary evolution. The festive nature of this dessert, with its spicy and sweet notes, makes it perfect for celebratory moments and festive occasions. It’s the kind of dessert that offers a burst of flavor and makes any gathering feel more special. The indulgence it provides is the perfect way to end any meal, leaving a lasting impression on your guests.
Why you will love this recipe
This Gulab Jamun Cheesecake is the ultimate combination of fusion and indulgence. It brings together the creamy richness of cream cheese with the sweet and delicious flavors of gulab jamuns. The crust is made with buttery biscuits, creating a crispy, yet smooth foundation that complements the rich, luxurious filling. Whether made in jars for individual servings or as a larger cake, this portable dessert is perfect for festive gatherings and parties, offering a festive touch that everyone will enjoy. The texture is just right — creamy, yet with a slight burst of flavor from the gulab jamuns that make every bite feel like a surprise.
The best part about this cheesecake is how easy-to-make it is. There’s no need for a complicated setup or setting time, which makes it a quick solution for your next party or celebration. The combination of sweet, spicy, and decadent flavors creates an indulgent experience that satisfies any sweet craving. Plus, you can even scale down the recipe for smaller portions or make a large batch to impress a bigger crowd. From its adorable mini servings to its gorgeous layers, this fusion dish is a treat that is sure to be the hit of any event.
How to make Gulab Jamun Cheesecake
To make this easy-to-make Gulab Jamun Cheesecake, start by preparing the crust with buttery biscuits and ghee, pressing it into a springform pan for a smooth and beautiful base. Then, blend cream cheese with gulab jamuns for that perfect fusion of flavors, creating a rich, creamy filling that’s full of sweet surprises. Pour the mixture onto the crust and let it set — there’s no setting time required! After about 15 minutes, it’s ready to serve, either as a whole cake or in individual servings. This fusion dish offers an indulgent experience, and with its festive touch, it’s sure to be the hit of any gathering. Each slice is the perfect balance of decadent treat, luxurious, and convenient, offering a slice of delight that will leave your guests asking for more.
Key Ingredients:
- Crust:
- Graham crackers
- Butter (preferably unsalted and melted)
- Ghee for richness
- Use a food processor to crush the graham crackers into crumbs
- Filling:
- Cream cheese (regular or fat-free)
- Sweetened condensed milk for sweetness
- Heavy whipping cream for smoothness
- Cornflour or cornstarch as a thickening agent
- Flavoring:
- Cardamom powder
- Saffron
- Rose essence for an Indian flavor
- Optional: Mascarpone cheese or ricotta cheese for extra creaminess
- Toppings and Garnishes:
- Mini gulab jamuns
- Toasted pistachios
- Dried rose petals
- Rose water and sugar syrup for added flavor
- Decorative finish with silver leaf or golden leaf
- Other Ingredients:
- Salt
- Organic granulated sugar or powdered sugar for sweetness
- Evaporated milk for creaminess
- Prep Time:
- About 15 minutes for easy preparation
- Can be made in a springform pan or mini servings
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare your baking equipment. Grease a 9-inch springform pan or an 8-inch cake tin for a larger cheesecake. Alternatively, use 12-count cupcake liners for mini servings.
Prepare the crust:
- Crush graham crackers in a food bag using a food processor or a rolling pin to achieve a sand-like texture.
- Mix the crushed biscuits with melted butter and ghee until the crumbs are moistened.
- Press the mixture evenly into the base of your pan and bake for 5 minutes. Let it cool.
Make the cheesecake filling:
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, corn flour, and vanilla. Whisk smooth until fully combined.
- Add half of the cream, whisk again, then incorporate the remaining cream.
- Melt white chocolate and stir it into the mixture. Add saffron, rose water, and cardamom powder for extra flavor if desired.
Assemble the cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and arrange the gulab jamuns evenly within the batter.
Baking:
- Set the pan into a water bath and bake for 40-50 minutes, until the sides are set but the center remains slightly wobbly.
Cool and refrigerate:
- After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Once cooled, refrigerate overnight to allow the cheesecake to fully set.
Garnishing:
- After chilling, garnish with whipped cream, mini gulab jamuns, and silver leaf for a beautiful finish.
Mini Cheesecakes:
- For individual servings, you can also prepare this cheesecake in mason jars. Adjust the baking time to 50-60 minutes.
How to Store & Freeze?
To store your Gulab Jamun Cheesecake, simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to make it a make-ahead dessert, you can also freeze individual slices or mini cheesecakes for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw the portions overnight in the refrigerator, or thaw them one at a time for a quicker option. This way, you can enjoy the delicious fusion dessert whenever you want without the hassle of making a fresh batch each time!
Tips for a Fool-Proof Gulab Jamun Cheesecake
Draining the Gulab Jamun
Make sure to drain the gulab jamun well to avoid any runny filling, especially if you’re using sugar syrup.
Using a Springform Pan
If you’re using a springform pan, ensure it’s properly sealed to prevent any leaks during baking.
Adjusting the Recipe Size
You can scale up or scale down the recipe depending on the size of your gathering:
- 9-inch pan – for a taller cheesecake
- 7-inch pan – for a slightly smaller cake
No-Bake Option
For a quick no-bake version, serve the cheesecake in instant cheesecake jars, making it a portable dessert for any party.
Baking Time and Texture
Keep an eye on the cheesecake while it’s baking. It’s done when the center has a slight jiggle:
- 75 minutes for a 9-inch pan
- 110 minutes for a taller cake in a 7-inch pan
Finishing Touch – Whipped Cream
Topping with whipped cream will give the cheesecake a light and airy texture, making it the perfect treat to serve to a mixed crowd of South Asians and non-South Asians alike, who will surely love the delightful combination of flavors.
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