This simple and flavorful cheese cake recipe is a perfect way to use leftover cheese or indulge in your love for cheese-based baked goods. It’s aromatic, easy to prepare, and stays soft and fresh for days, making it ideal for snacks, work, or school lunches.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10 slices

Ingredients
For the Cake:

• • Butter: 80g, softened
  • Sugar: 100g (1/2 cup)
  • Eggs: 2 medium

• • Lemon Juice: 40g (4 tbsp)
  • Flour: 170g (1 1/3 cups), sifted
  • Baking Powder: 1 tsp

• Salt: A pinch
• Optional: Zest of 1 lemon, a pinch of ginger or cardamom for extra flavor

For Add-ins:

• Cheese: 100-150g, grated (preferably 45% fat or higher, for flavor)
• Optional Add-ins: Black or green olives, roasted mushrooms, sweet peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, diced ham, or other meats

Directions

• • Prepare the Oven and Pan:
    • Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
    • Grease a 23×11 cm loaf pan and lightly dust it with flour, shaking off the excess.

• • Prepare the Batter:
    • • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
      • Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix well. Stir in the lemon juice, optional lemon zest, and spices.
      • Gradually fold in the flour and baking powder, mixing gently until combined. Add salt to taste.
  • Incorporate Add-ins:
    • Mix the grated cheese and your choice of add-ins (e.g., olives, ham, or veggies) into the batter. Reserve a few pieces for topping if desired.

• • Assemble the Cake:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
    • Decorate with reserved cheese, add-ins, or sprinkle with coarse salt and herbs.

• Bake the Cake:
  • Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 20 minutes. Reduce the heat to 170°C (340°F) and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool and Serve:
  • • Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with a fresh green salad or tomato soup for a comforting meal.

• Enjoy as a standalone snack or with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Cooking Tips

• • Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.

• Adjust the salt depending on the saltiness of the cheese.
• Add sugar (1 tsp) for a slightly sweet flavor contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium.
  • Eggs: Packed with essential nutrients and protein.
  • Lemon Juice: Provides a boost of vitamin C.

Dietary Information

• Contains Dairy, Gluten, and Eggs.

Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• • Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients.

• • Versatile – customize with your favorite add-ins.
  • Perfect for using leftover cheese.
  • Stays fresh and soft for days, making it ideal for meal prep.

Conclusion
This cheese cake is the ultimate comfort bake for cheese lovers. Its moist, fluffy texture and savory flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or pack it for a snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking and bon appétit!