Northamptonshire Cheesecakes

The Midland shires have a considerable number of recipes for cheesecakes. This one is filled with a curd or cream cheese, fruit and almond mixture.

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Serves: 14-16

Ingredients

• 8  ounces  prepared  shortcrust pastry
• 6  ounces  curds or 6  ounces cream cheese
• 2  ounces butter
• 2  eggs
• 3  ounces caster sugar
• 4  ounces currants
• 1  finely grated lemon, rind of
• 1⁄4 teaspoon  almond extract
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, for dusting

Directions

1. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface and use to line 14 to 16 lightly greased patty tins.
2. Set oven to 350ºF or mark 4.
3. In a bowl, beat the curd or cheese until smooth.
4. Put the butter, eggs and sugar in a saucepan and heat gently, stirring , until thickened, but do not allow to boil!
5. Remove from the heat and stir in the curd or cheese, then add the currants, lemon rind and almond essence.
6. Combine well and fill the tins.
7. Sprinkle a little nutmeg over each and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until well risen and golden.
8. Serve hot or cold.