Lilikoi Cheesecake Recipe: A Tropical Delight

Lilikoi cheesecake blends tangy passion fruit purée with creamy cheese and buttery graham cracker crust. This Hawaiian delicacy offers a perfect mix of sweet and tart flavours. Its silky texture and vibrant taste make it ideal for special occasions.

The Lilikoi Cheesecake recipe uses just a few key ingredients. You’ll need 2 cups of heavy cream, 8 tablespoons of sugar, and ½ cup of unsweetened lilikoi juice. This recipe serves 4 half-cup portions.

Cooking takes about 15 minutes, plus at least 4 hours of chilling time. The luxurious texture comes from a chemical reaction between cream, sugar, and citrus juice.

This cheesecake is perfect for tropical-themed gatherings or when you fancy a taste of the islands. Its vibrant flavour and stunning look will impress your guests. It’s a true celebration of Hawaiian passion fruit.

Understanding Lilikoi: The Hawaiian Passion Fruit

Lilikoi, Hawaii’s passion fruit, has a fascinating history and unique flavour. It arrived in Hawaii from South America in the late 19th century. Since then, it’s become a vital part of Hawaiian cuisine and culture.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Lilikoi likely came to Hawaii from Brazil or Peru in the late 1800s. Its bright yellow skin and tangy-sweet inside quickly won over locals. Now, lilikoi is a key ingredient in many Hawaiian dishes and desserts.

The fruit has become a beloved symbol of Hawaiian culinary traditions. Its unique taste and versatility have made it an important part of island identity.

Distinctive Flavour Profile

Lilikoi offers a special taste experience, blending sweetness and acidity. It tastes like a mix of passion fruit and guava, with floral notes. This unique flavour makes lilikoi popular in many foods and drinks.

Sourcing Fresh Lilikoi and Alternatives

Fresh lilikoi is common throughout Hawaii. You can find it at local farmers’ markets, specialty stores, and online shops. If you can’t get fresh lilikoi, try high-quality passion fruit purée or concentrate.

These alternatives provide a similar taste. They work well in recipes that call for this tropical fruit.

“Lilikoi is more than just a fruit – it’s a symbol of the rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions that make Hawaii so unique.”

Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools

Lilikoi cheesecake requires specific ingredients and baking equipment. The star is lilikoi purée, a tangy passion fruit from Hawaii. You’ll need cream cheese, graham crackers, eggs, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.

A 9 or 10-inch springform pan is crucial for easy cheesecake removal. You’ll also need a stand or handheld electric mixer for the cream cheese filling. A large bowl, rubber spatula, and whisk are helpful for preparation.

To elevate presentation, use a piping bag with various tips. These create elegant swirls of whipped cream or lilikoi purée. A zester adds a fresh lemon or lime garnish.

With these ingredients and tools, you’re set to make a remarkable Hawaiian-inspired cheesecake. The right balance of flavours will capture the essence of the islands.

“The key to a perfect lilikoi cheesecake lies in the balance of flavours and the quality of the ingredients.”

Lilikoi Cheesecake Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Fancy a taste of Hawaii? Our Lilikoi Cheesecake blends tangy passion fruit with creamy goodness. Follow these steps to create a stunning dessert that’ll wow your guests.

Creating the Perfect Graham Cracker Crust

Start with the graham cracker crust. Mix 9 crushed graham crackers, 5 tablespoons melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Press the mixture into a 10-inch springform pan.

Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.

Mixing the Cream Cheese Filling

Blend 3 blocks of cream cheese until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar, mixing well. Add 4 eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl as needed.

Stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla essence and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Incorporating Lilikoi Puree

Fold 1/4 cup of Aunty Lilikoi passion fruit juice into the filling. This creates a lovely swirled effect. If too thick, add a tablespoon of heavy cream.

Pour the mixture into the crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake in a water bath at 300°F (140°C) for 45-50 minutes. The centre should be almost set. Cool for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 8 hours.

This Lilikoi Cheesecake offers a creamy texture and tangy flavour. It’s a tropical treat that’ll transport you to Hawaii. Serve as a delightful dessert for any occasion.

Professional Baking Tips and Techniques

Creating a perfect cheesecake needs a careful mix of ingredients and methods. The water bath (bain-marie) is key for a smooth, crack-free surface. Wrap the springform pan in foil to keep water out.

Place the pan in a larger one filled with hot water. This gentle heat helps the cheesecake bake evenly. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly open for an hour.

Let the cheesecake cool on a wire rack before chilling. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

For a tasty lilikoi glaze, mix fresh pulp with sugar and lemon juice. Heat gently until thick and glossy. Drizzle over the chilled cheesecake and add your favourite toppings.

“The key to a flawless cheesecake is patience and attention to detail. Take the time to follow each step precisely, and you’ll be rewarded with a dessert that’s worthy of a standing ovation.”

The water bath method is crucial for a crack-free cheesecake. Wrap the pan, bake at a low temperature, and cool slowly. These steps ensure a silky, flawless texture your guests will love.

Master these cheesecake baking tips and you’ll be well on your way to creating amazing desserts.

Conclusion

Lilikoi cheesecake is a tropical treat that showcases Hawaiian cuisine’s best flavours. This homemade dessert combines creamy cheesecake with tangy-sweet passion fruit. It’s a beloved dish that captures the essence of Pacific paradise.

Can’t make it yourself? Visit Peggy Ann Bakery in Hawaii for their delicious version. Enjoy this tropical delight at a luau, festival, or at home. It’s a true taste of Hawaiian cuisine.

Lilikoi cheesecake offers a unique and flavourful tropical dessert experience. Try the recipe to create your own slice of Hawaiian heaven. Your taste buds will thank you for this delightful culinary adventure.

FAQ

What is lilikoi cheesecake?

Lilikoi cheesecake is a Hawaiian treat that blends tangy passion fruit puree with creamy cheese. It’s made with a buttery graham cracker crust, offering a perfect mix of sweet and tart flavours. This dessert brings a taste of the Pacific paradise to your plate.

What is the history and cultural significance of lilikoi in Hawaii?

Lilikoi, the Hawaiian name for passion fruit, arrived in Hawaii from South America in the late 19th century. It quickly became a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and culture. Lilikoi offers a unique flavour that combines sweetness, acidity, and floral notes.

Where can I find fresh lilikoi or suitable alternatives?

Fresh lilikoi can be found in Hawaii, specialty stores, farmers’ markets, or online. If fresh lilikoi isn’t available, try high-quality passion fruit puree or concentrate instead.

What are the key ingredients and necessary kitchen tools for making lilikoi cheesecake?

Key ingredients include lilikoi puree, cream cheese, graham crackers, eggs, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. A springform pan is essential for baking the cheesecake.

You’ll also need a stand mixer or handheld electric mixer, large bowl, rubber spatula, and whisk. Optional decorating tools like a piping bag, tips, and zester can enhance presentation.

How do I make the perfect lilikoi cheesecake?

For the crust, mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into a springform pan and bake.

For the filling, blend room temperature cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and gently fold in the lilikoi puree.

Bake the cheesecake using a water bath method to prevent cracking.

What are the essential tips and techniques for baking a crack-free lilikoi cheesecake?

Use the water bath method by wrapping the springform pan in heavy-duty aluminium foil. Place it in a larger pan filled with hot water.

After baking, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This helps the cheesecake cool slowly.

Cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating to achieve a crack-free surface.

Where can I purchase a delicious lilikoi cheesecake if I don’t want to make it myself?

The Peggy Ann Bakery in Hawaii is famous for their tasty lilikoi cheesecake. You can order it and have it shipped to your location.