Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico! Pay de Queso is not just a cheesecake – it's a creamy, dreamy slice of pure indulgence that promises to revolutionize your dessert game. With its rich, velvety texture and perfect balance of sweetness, this Mexican delicacy is about to become your new obsession. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dessert that looks complicated but is surprisingly simple to make!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package cream cheese
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your Pay de Queso bakes evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, add 1 package of cream cheese. Make sure it is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of sugar to the cream cheese and continue to mix until well combined and fluffy.
- Incorporate 1/2 cup of sour cream into the mixture. This will add a nice tanginess to the cheesecake.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Pour in 1 tsp of vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated, enhancing the flavor of your Pay de Queso.
- Once the filling is well combined, pour the mixture into the pre-made graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- After baking, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the Pay de Queso for at least 2 hours to allow it to set properly.
- When ready to serve, slice the Pay de Queso into 8 equal pieces and enjoy this delicious Mexican dessert!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Don't Overmix: Beat the ingredients just until combined to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracking.
- Baking Perfection: The cheesecake is done when the center is slightly jiggly but set. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
- Cooling Matters: Allow the Pay de Queso to cool at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation and maintain its smooth texture.
- Make Ahead: This dessert actually tastes better when chilled for a few hours, making it perfect for advance preparation.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving. Pro Tip: The secret to an amazing Pay de Queso is patience – don't rush the cooling and chilling process, and you'll be rewarded with a perfectly creamy, dreamy dessert!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
