What is farmers cheese and how is it used in chocolate cake?

Farmers cheese is a fresh, mild cheese made from curdled milk, similar in texture to ricotta or cottage cheese but drier and firmer. In chocolate cake recipes, it adds a creamy richness and moist texture without overpowering flavors. Using farmers cheese in chocolate cake batter helps keep the cake tender and adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of chocolate. It's commonly mixed into the batter or layered with chocolate to create moist, flavorful desserts with a slightly tangy finish.

Can I substitute farmers cheese with other cheeses in a chocolate cake recipe?

Yes, you can substitute farmers cheese with ricotta, cream cheese, or cottage cheese. Ricotta is the closest alternative due to its similar texture and mild taste. Cream cheese works but is richer and tangier, which may slightly alter the flavor. Cottage cheese should be well-drained or blended to achieve a smooth consistency before using. Keep in mind substitutions might change moisture levels and texture, so adjust baking times or add a little flour if the batter feels too wet.

How do I store farmers cheese chocolate cake to keep it fresh?

Store farmers cheese chocolate cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Because of the cheese’s moisture content, refrigeration helps maintain freshness and prevents spoilage. Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for better texture and flavor. You can also freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What are common troubleshooting tips if my farmers cheese chocolate cake is too dense or dry?

If your cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter, which develops gluten and leads to heaviness. Mix ingredients until just combined. Using farmers cheese that is too dry or adding too much flour can also cause dryness. To prevent this, measure ingredients carefully, and consider adding a bit more liquid such as milk or sour cream. Baking at too high a temperature or for too long can dry the cake out, so monitor baking time closely and test with a toothpick.

Are there any nutritional benefits to using farmers cheese in chocolate cake?

Yes, farmers cheese adds protein and calcium to chocolate cake, contributing to its nutritional value compared to cakes made with only butter or oil. It’s lower in fat than cream cheese and provides beneficial nutrients like phosphorus and vitamin B12. While the cake remains a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation, incorporating farmers cheese can make it a slightly more wholesome option by adding dairy-based protein and reducing the need for extra fats.

Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe With Creamy Rich Texture

Name: Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1 3/4 sticks (14 tablespoons) butter; 1 egg yolk; 2 1/2 tablespoons milk; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 3/4 tablespoons cocoa powder; 3/4 tablespoon baking soda; 1.5 pounds farmers cheese; 1 1/4 cups sugar; 3 eggs plus 1 egg white; 1 1/2 tablespoons potato starch or corn starch; grated zest of 1 lemon; 3/4 stick butter; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon cocoa powder; 3 tablespoons water

Description

🧀 This Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake offers a rich and creamy texture that combines the smoothness of cheese with decadent chocolate.
🍫 Perfect for chocolate lovers seeking a unique dessert with a delicious balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

1 3/4 sticks (14 tablespoons) butter

1 egg yolk

2 1/2 tablespoons milk

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 3/4 tablespoons cocoa powder

3/4 tablespoon baking soda

1.5 pounds farmers cheese

1 1/4 cups sugar

3 eggs plus 1 egg white

1 1/2 tablespoons potato starch or corn starch

grated zest of 1 lemon

3/4 stick butter

3/4 cup sugar

1 tablespoon cocoa powder

3 tablespoons water

Instructions

1-First, focus on the crust: cream the softened butter with the egg yolk and milk until smooth. Then, sift and blend the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda before mixing them into the wet ingredients to form a dough. Divide the dough into two balls and freeze for about one hour until firm to ensure the best texture.

2-Next, for the cheese filling, mix the farmers cheese, sugar, eggs, egg white, and starch until well combined. If you’re adding lemon zest, stir it in for extra flavor. This step creates the creamy heart of the cake that gives it its signature rich texture.

3-Now, assemble the cake: grate one frozen dough ball into the bottom of a buttered and parchment-lined 9-inch springform pan, spreading it evenly. Pour the cheese filling over this base, then grate and spread the second dough ball on top to seal everything in and prevent leaks.

4-Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, using a baking sheet or foil on the lower rack to catch any drips. The cake should jiggle slightly when done, so keep an eye on it. After baking, let it cool to room temperature before preparing the glaze by melting butter with sugar, cocoa powder, and water over medium heat until smooth.

5-Pour the cooled glaze over the cake and refrigerate until it sets. For a final flourish, top with fresh fruit like raspberries. The total preparation takes about 1 hour for active steps, 30 to 35 minutes for baking, and around 1 hour and 35 minutes overall.

Notes

❄️ Freezing the dough before baking ensures the best texture.
🧀 Grating dough on the top and bottom layers prevents cheese filling from leaking.
🍽️ Use a baking sheet or foil in the oven to catch any leaks during baking.

Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: European

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 28 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 8 g
Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: Farmers cheese cake, Chocolate cheese cake, Creamy chocolate cake, Cheese tart dessert