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I have some thrilling news to share. If you know me, you probably know that I’m pretty reserved and don’t really like talking about myself. I’d rather talk about you…ask you how your day was, how is the family, what is the best thing you ate recently?
Anyway, I’ll just be out with it…
I’m working on my first cookbook!!
It’s a Middle Eastern cookbook, focusing on Levantine cuisine in general and Syrian cuisine in particular, with about 100 recipes. It’s being published by Tuttle Publishing, a wonderful publisher with a long history of gorgeous cookbooks, and is expected out in fall 2012 or spring 2013. For those of you who like cookbooks with tons of pretty pictures, rest assured that this one will be full of them. :)
With news like this, Mike and I had to have a little celebration…and what could be more celebratory than cheesecake? I had to get creative when I came up with this recipe because I only wanted to make enough for two servings, and also, I didn’t have any Neufchatel or cream cheese in the house (which is typically the base of most cheesecakes). A custardy Greek yogurt filling stood in quite nicely, and this ended up being a delicious little cake. Make it today to celebrate something in your life.
I just wanted to say thank you to all of you who read my blog! Your messages, comments, and emails encourage and inspire me to no end. Without this blog and all of you, I never would have dreamed of writing my own cookbook. xoxo, Faith
- ¼ cup crushed crackers (I used 6 saltine crackers)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ¾ cup (175 g) plain, low-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- 5 tablespoons (60 g) sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Anything you like, such as jam, chocolate sauce, caramel, etc. (I used strawberry preserves)
- Butter, to grease the pan
- Preheat oven to 350F. Lightly grease a 4-inch diameter springform pan with butter.
- Combine all crust ingredients in a small bowl. Pour into the prepared pan and lightly press down with your fingers. Bake until lightly browned, about 7 minutes.
- Combine all filling ingredients (except the vanilla) in a medium-sized, thick-bottomed saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly. Once simmering, it will take about 1 minute to thicken to a stiff pudding consistency; when it does that, turn the heat off and whisk in the vanilla.
- Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and bake 20 minutes.
- Turn the oven off and let the cake cool completely in the oven.
- Once completely cooled to room temperature, refrigerate the cake 2 hours to chill.
- Let the cake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. Right before serving, top with any topping you like.
I’m the writer, recipe developer, photographer, and food stylist behind this blog. I love finding the human connection through something we all do every day: eat! Food is a common ground that we can all relate to, and our tables tell a story. It’s my goal to inspire you to get in the kitchen, try something new, and find a favorite you didn’t know you had.
Free Bonus
I made and loved -I want to make for a party – Do I just x ingredients by 4 to make enough for 8 people in a larger pan? Will it come out ok?
Thank you!
Tammy, I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe! :)
Yes, you can definitely make this in a larger quantity. Multiply all ingredients by 4 (for the salt in the filling, use about 1/4 teaspoon).
You can bake it in a 9-inch springform pan, or if you have a 9-inch square pan, you can use that – just line it with 2 pieces of foil so the foil hangs over all 4 sides (so you can lift the cheesecake out later), and spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray.
The crust will bake for around the same time, but the filling will likely need to bake a little longer.
Feel free to let me know if you have any other questions!
This cheesecake is insanely delicious and super easy to make. I doubt I’ll bother buying a store bought one again.
Congratulations! How exciting, can’t wait to see it :)
Oh Faith, I’m absolutely thrilled to pieces for you!! HOORAY! HOORAY! Can’t wait to read it and cook from it. :-)
Congratulations! Huge news – can’t wait to see the book when it comes out.
SUCH exciting news! Congrats on a much deserved opportunity Faith!
that is sooooo awesome :) well done
WOW WOW WOW!!!!
:)
I like your blogs new look to :)
hugs
Betty Bake x
Wow…that is terribly exciting news!!! You must be thrilled!! Congratulations, and by the way, your cheesecake looks gorgeous! I don’t usually make cheesecake because I rarely use cream cheese, but I definitely would make this since it’s made with Greek yogurt. Using saltine crackers for the crust sounds extremely interesting! I’ll bet the bit of saltiness adds an interesting dimension. Finally, I love that it’s a recipe for two because I’m always looking for dessert recipes that don’t make huge quantities. So thanks for sharing this and I hope you’ll keep us all informed when your cookbook comes out because I’d love to buy a copy. My husband and I enjoy Middle Eastern food and I still don’t have a cookbook for this type of cuisine. I’ll hold off for yours. :)
Okay…how am I JUST finding out about this?!?! CONGRATS!!!! :))
Congratulations!
Congrats Faith! That’s wonderful news! I’ll try to pop in more often to see how it’s going. :)
~ingrid
Congratulations on your cookbook Faith, put me on the pre-order list because I know I’m going to want it the day it’s available. I’m loving these pretty cheesecakes for two;-)
I’d be celebrating with a luscious cheesecake too…yum…one of my favourite desserts.
A cookbook with loads of photos…just the way it should be…congrats my dear…well deserved.
Here’s wishing you the patience and stamina you’ll need going forward. If anyone can pull it off…you certainly can ;o)
Ciao for now,
Claudia
Congratulations!!!!!! How exciting! =)
Owwhhh, I want an autographed copy dear Faith. That is really fabulous news. A big hearty hug & congratulations to you. Love the little cheesecake too :)
it’s about time, faith! speaking of faith, i have a lot of it in you and your abilities–good luck!
Congratulations on your cookbook, Faith! You have found a niche with Syrian cuisine and I know your book will be beautifully delicious. I could celebrate my daughter being home from college with your luscious cheesecake, but I’d need to make it for 3 :) Have a great weekend!
Hi Faith!
Gosh it’s been ages! Still loving every single one of your recipes though. Whenever I catch a spare minute or two, I stalk through your blog (in a non-creepy way of course lol). So wonderful that you’re writing a cookbook! It will surely be an amazing one and can’t wait till it’s out! So fantastic of you to take on such an endeavour. Like I’ve always said, you take amazing photos and I’m sure your cookbook will be full of many mouthwatering shots! Cheesecake looks AMAZING. Mike it a very lucky man ;).
Congrats on the book! Did you approach them or vice versa? Great recipe theme too! So happy for you!
A cookbook! That’s wonderful! I can’t wait to see it. Will you inscribe one to us when it’s ready? (You’re right, it really is all about me… ha, ha, ha.)
This cheescake for two idea is a brilliant one. I have this super cheescake recipe which I never make because it is huge and we (really I) always overdo eating it. Hegui isn’t a sweets person. I’m going to look for a 4-inch pan.
CONGRATS! Once again, I read this on my phone and had to come back and comment. So happy for you! It sounds like a fabulous cookbook theme, and I can’t wait to get my hands on a copy! Now, the wait… :)
Dear Faith, this is an awesome news. Congratulations on your cookbook! What a tasty treat to celebrate this special occasion! Best wishes :)
Congratulations Faith! I’m so happy for you! And the cheesecake looks amazing…
This looks yummy….you have a lovely blog…I am having a giveaway in my blog..Y dont you check and join that
http://yummytummy-aarthi.blogspot.com/2011/05/chocolate-recipe-and-chocolate.html
How exciting for you..and all of us! Congrats! I’d love to buy your cookbook! ;) Your cheesecake looks wonderful…terrific photos!
You’re moving on up Faith! We all have ‘faith’ in you. :)
OMG!!!! I’m so happy and proud of you, Faith!!! I can’t think of anyone who deserves it more!!! I can’t wait to see it in print. You’ve got a fan in me, not that I wasn’t already one! :D
Love the cute and delicate cheecake..good that it has no cream or cheese base, which I avoid. Lovely texture..must be very delightful :) And am very happy to read about your venture..my hearty wishes and best luck for great success. Waiting to see the book out soon.
Gla dto have lnown you for quite soemtime through our blogs, Faith. Tight hugs.
so happy for your faith! it will be an amazing cookbook i know i will buy it! congrats!
Now that is a cookbook I absolutely can’t WAIT to read! I adore middle eastern food and trust you as a resource for good recipes IMPLICITLY.
Cheesecake is definitely the only acceptable way to celebrate such good news. This looks fantastic! I’m so happy for you!
Congratulations! I’m so excited for you! The cheesecake is the perfect way to celebrate!
Congratulations! That is wonderful news! I am looking forward to seeing your cookbook.
Your cheesecake sounds great. I love that you used Greek yogurt:)
Congratiulations!! This is indeed a great news. I love cheesecakes- have been wanting to try one for myself for a long time but dont find recipes for smaller portions- Thanks so much for exactly that :)
I am thrilled for you, Faith! Such exciting news. It’s going to be perfect.
Wow, this is definitely a reason to celebrate!! I hope you’ll blog about the process… so exciting!!
Oh, and the cheesecake looks delicious!
That is exciting news, Faith – congratulations!!
This is a wonderful news Faith! Congrats! I’m sure your cookbook will be great just like your blog. And this cheesecake is perfect to celebrate!
congrats dear…wat a delicious treat to celeb this special moment..:)
Tasty Appetite
Event: Letz Relishh Ice Creams
Congratulations, Faith! The cheesecake looks terrific!
What a beautiful cheesecake! Wow!! Congrats Faith!! You have won some free Chobani from my giveaway!! Thank you for the sweet comment :) Email me your mailing address and I will send your coupon.
Heather
[email protected]
That is very exciting news and worthy of a celebration (or two)! I’ve never tried a cheesecake with yogurt but it turned out beautifully. It looks delicious!
Oh i must add that red velvet tea cake is really special and so are those macroons..
Oh they rock ….
First of all am SORRRYYY, havent been around but think of u often:-)
And though i have lods to catch up here , lods of good things , i tell ya i couldn have been happier to be here on this page with this fantasticcccc news.
Babe , ur amazing and this was jus what u needed to add the feather to ur cap.
I must HAVE the book when its out :-) and i sure will , ur recipes are absolutely delightful and am looking forward , totally…
U go gurl and lods of huggies and love as u work thru this , i’ll be right here , cheering and love all u do!
Oh the cheesecake , the cheesecake , wish i could have a slice with u , to celebrate and share a hug!
WOnderful day dearest one!
Congrats! How exciting for you!
Faith, that is fantastic! Heartfelt congratulations on your cookbook deal. I know that you’ll create a beautiful book, with intriguing recipes. the cheesecake looks lovely, too.
Amazing news! Congratulations! The cake has something of a fairy tale! Love the photos!
Congratulations!! im so excited for you:) this cake looks so yummy! thank you for sharing this.
OMG, congratulations, I am so super happy for you! I would totally buy your book :D
The cheesecake looks awesome, and i love it that it has greek yogurt, one of my favorite ingredients.
*kisses* HH
Congratulations on the cookbook, Faith! What exciting news. I’m glad you shared this with us. I love cheesecake, your looks incredible. Best of luck in this exciting journey ahead :-D
Faith thanks so much for stopping by my blog. Congratulations on this wonderful news. You must be very excited that a publisher has commissioned you to write a book… and btw that cheesecake looks just fantastic!
Mabrouk, Faith!
Wow, I can’t wait to get a copy to add to my collection. As you know, I love your Middle-Eastern recipes, – they always get rave reviews from my family.
Just please don’t forget to include your recipe for Okra/Bamia/Ladyfingers….It’s the best EVER!! ;-)
Faith, I have noticed you are very private, which is a nice yin to the yang of how I tend to overshare–lol! I’m so glad you shared this very great news with us–that is SO EXCITING! Congratulations! You know you will get many sales just from your blog readers. I can’t wait to get my copy! And what a perfect way to celebrate with this adorable, perfect cheesecake. Love that you use Greek yogurt–how perfect and healthy!
Congratulations! I know your cookbook will be full of delicious treats and lovely photos. :) This little cheesecake is the perfect size. And I always have greek yogurt on hand- it sounds yummy!
Congratulations and please keep us posted!!
That’s awesome! Sounds delicious. Congratulations!
Congratulations, Faith, such terrific news! I know your cookbook will be fantastic!
Congrats this is a great news and the cheese cake is apt for the celebration.
wow! that is so exciting! congratulations! I’m sure it will be a wonderful book!
Congratulations, Faith!!!!! I’m so proud of you!!!! I can’t think of anyone who deserves this more, and I know your many readers will be salivating to get their hands on your gorgeous cookbook (I know I will!). You’ve worked so hard to get to this point. Kudos to you!!!
xoxo Jessie :)
Congratulations to you! That’s so wonderful and I wish you much success! The cheesecake looks so good too!
YAY congratulations Faith!!! That’s absolutely wonderful news and I can’t wait to see it when it comes out. Put me down for a copy! :D
Congrats to you! That is awesome. Can’t wait to see it all in print.
This is such a great news :) This cake looks so creamy and soft … great recipe!
Faith….this is the best news I have seen all day!! I am so happy that you will be working on a cookbook. It will be amazing. Are you going to be taking the photos as well as creating the beautiful recipes?? I can’t wait to see it. Have fun with that cheesecake. xo
Congratulations Faith!! You deserve it! And I cannot wait until the books come out :)
Congratulations Faith! It is a daunting project which I am sure you will tackle with gusto and talent. Can’t wait to see the final result! As for the cheesecake, I have always wanted to make one with yogurt, or labneh rather and this is motivating me to try!
Congrats! Can we pre-order?
What awesome news!! Congratulations Faith. I am SO happy for you. Can’t wait for the cookbook to come out!
Congratulations, that is great news, very exciting! I am so looking forward to it. That is really so cool!
Awesome cheesecake!
I am so excited, I could not type in the code. This should not surprise me. You have the cooking ability, the artistic eye and the creativity in both cooking and photos. Of course, you are writing a cookbook. WOW!!!!
Faith, I am thrilled for you and for us who know you. Can I say, I knew you when……? I want to put my order in now. OK, I will wait.
Congratulations and keep me up to date how it is going. Such good news?
I wish, I could get my excitement into words that would show you just how happy I am. Words don’t say enough. Hopefully, you understand.
Chaya
How exciting, well done and congratulations. That cheese cake looks fantastic, will certainly make that one Thanks. Diane
Awesome news! Congratulations. That is so great. I love middle Eastern food. Can’t wait to hear more about it.
That cheesecake looks delightfully luscious!
Cheers,
Rosa
Congratulations!! That’s awesome :D
I’m going to try this recipe for sure, I might actually make it this afternoon because I have everything and it looks so good, although I’m not sure what to bake it in as I don’t have a springform that small. I’ll see what I can find :)
CONGRATS! This is great news, indeed! :)
A cookbook! Wow! Congratulations on getting a publishing deal :)