Cheesecake aux myrtilles et spéculoos

When it comes to indulgent French desserts, cheesecake aux myrtilles et spéculoos is a perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and simplicity. Combining the earthy crunch of spéculoos biscuits with the creamy richness of a no-bake cheesecake and the natural sweetness of blueberries, this dessert has become a summer favorite across French kitchens and patisseries.

Unlike the traditional New York-style cheesecake, this version is lighter, quicker to prepare, and doesn’t require an oven—making it ideal for warm days or when entertaining guests without the hassle of baking.

The appeal of this cheesecake lies not only in its taste but also in its nutritional value, thanks to the blueberries. Known for their high antioxidant content and benefits for heart health and brain function, blueberries add more than just color to this dish. According to Healthline, they are one of the most nutrient-dense fruits available.

Another key ingredient, spéculoos, is a spiced shortcrust biscuit originating from Belgium. These cookies bring depth to the cheesecake with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and caramelized sugar. If you’re curious about the background of these cookies, TasteAtlas offers a detailed look at the tradition behind this beloved biscuit.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here are the classic ingredients used in a cheesecake aux myrtilles et spéculoos:

• Spéculoos biscuits: 10 biscuits, finely crushed
• Unsalted butter: 60g, melted
• Cream cheese (fromage frais): 450g
• Crème fraîche liquide: 75ml
• Icing sugar (sucre glace): 10 tbsp
• Fresh blueberries (myrtilles): 150g
• Gelatin sheets: 3 sheets, soaked

Alternatives and Tips

• Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based gelatin for a dairy-free version.
• Swap crème fraîche with Greek yogurt for a tangier taste.
• Frozen blueberries work well too—just thaw and pat dry first.

Equipment Needed

• Springform pan or individual ramekins
• Mixing bowls
• Silicone spatula
• Saucepan
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Food processor (optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe

Follow these simple steps to make your cheesecake aux myrtilles et spéculoos a success:

1. Prepare the base
   • Crush the spéculoos biscuits using a food processor or by hand.
   • Mix with melted butter until evenly combined.
   • Press into the base of your pan and smooth with the back of a spoon. Chill while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the filling
   • Soak gelatin in cold water for 10 minutes.
   • Warm the crème fraîche in a saucepan. Add the squeezed-out gelatin to melt completely.
   • In a separate bowl, whip the cream cheese until smooth, then blend with the cooled cream mixture.
   • Fold in sugar and a portion of the blueberries.
3. Assemble
   • Pour the filling over the chilled crust.
   • Decorate with remaining blueberries.
   • Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.

Creative Variations

For those wanting to experiment, try:

• Berry swaps: Use raspberries or blackberries for a different flavor.
• Chocolate twist: Add melted white chocolate into the filling.
• Lemon zest: Mix in for a bright, citrusy lift.

Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate a simple cheesecake into a show-stopping dessert. Consider:

• Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers as garnish
• Serving in glass jars for individual portions
• Drizzle with blueberry compote or coulis for an extra visual and flavor punch

Common Troubleshooting

• Cheesecake won’t set? Ensure the gelatin fully dissolves and the mixture is cooled before chilling.
• Soggy base? Press down the crust firmly and avoid adding filling before the base is properly chilled.
• Too sweet? Adjust the sugar to taste; the sweetness of spéculoos can vary.

Storage and Shelf-Life

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• You can freeze slices for up to 1 month—just wrap well.
• For best texture, avoid freezing with toppings like fresh berries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheesecake without gelatin?
Yes, substitute with agar-agar or simply chill longer for a softer set.

What cheese works best for French cheesecake?
Fromage frais or Philadelphia-style cream cheese offers the ideal creamy texture.

Can I use frozen blueberries?
Absolutely—just thaw and pat dry to prevent excess water.

How long should it chill before serving?
At least 4 hours, though overnight yields the best results.

Is baking necessary?
No, this is a no-bake cheesecake. If desired, you can bake the crust for extra firmness, but it’s optional.

Why This Dessert Works

This dessert shines because it brings together texture, flavor, and ease. The spiced biscuit base, velvety cheese layer, and tart-sweet fruit topping make it a crowd-pleaser. For added tips on setting your cheesecake without baking, Serious Eats provides a helpful breakdown of techniques.

Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend brunch, a dinner party, or a quiet night in, cheesecake aux myrtilles et spéculoos is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. It’s simple, satisfying, and a true celebration of classic ingredients with a French twist.

Print