“The lightest, most fluffy cottage cheesecake you’ve ever tasted – a real cloud in your mouth! – Page 2

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the cubed, softened butter. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Add the egg yolk and cold water. Mix with a fork until the dough just begins to clump together, then use your hands to gently knead it into a smooth ball. Be careful not to overwork it.
Flatten the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling & Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Separate the egg whites and yolks, placing them in two separate bowls. Ensure the bowl for the egg whites is completely clean and grease-free.
In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the granulated sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture is pale, thick, and creamy.
Whisk in the cornflour and cream until smooth. Add the fromage blanc and lemon zest (if using), and mix until just combined.
Using a hand or stand mixer with a clean whisk attachment, beat the egg whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks.
Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cheese mixture in three additions, using a spatula and a slow, folding motion to keep the mixture light and airy. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake:

Lightly grease a 23cm (9-inch) tart or springform pan.
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough to a circle slightly larger than your pan. Carefully transfer and press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Trim any excess.
Pour the fluffy cheese filling into the pastry case and spread it out evenly.

4. Baking:

Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly ajar, and let the cake cool inside for about an hour to prevent cracking. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate for a few hours before serving. Enjoy your slice of cloud!