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–+ servings
Cheese Torte from Ruth
Cheese torte is a classic mid-century dessert that blends the richness of custard-style fillings with a lightly spiced crumb crust. Recipes like this often appeared in community cookbooks and handwritten collections during the 1950s and 60s, reflecting European influences adapted to American kitchens. The use of cottage cheese gives it a slightly rustic texture compared to modern cream cheese versions, while the cinnamon-sugar base adds warmth and depth. This dessert strikes a balance between cheesecake and custard pie, making it a unique and nostalgic treat that feels both simple and special.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pkg Holland rusks (grated, about 2 cups crumbs)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ cup butter (melted)
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 ½ cups sugar
  • 2 lbs cottage cheese (creamed smooth)
  • ½ pint sweet cream (scratched out, optional)
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Crumb Base

  • Grate the Holland rusks into fine crumbs.
  • Mix crumbs with 1 cup sugar and cinnamon.

Step 2: Add Butter

  • Pour melted butter over crumb mixture.
  • Mix until evenly coated.

Step 3: Form Crust Layers

  • Reserve 1 cup of crumb mixture for topping.
  • Press remaining crumbs into bottom and sides of a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare Filling

  • In a bowl, beat eggs with 1 1/2 cups s420ugar until smooth.

Step 5: Add Dairy45

  • Mix in creamed cottage cheese and sweet cream.

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients

  • Stir in flour, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.

Step 7: Fill Crust

  • Pour filling into prepared crust.

Step 8: Add Topping

  • Sprinkle reserved crumb mixture over the top.

Step 9: Bake

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until set.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

  • Allow to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips

  • Substitute graham crackers for Holland rusks if unavailable
  • Use ricotta instead of cottage cheese for a smoother texture
  • Add lemon zest for a brighter flavor
  • Top with fruit compote before serving
  • Reduce sugar slightly for a less sweet version
  • Chill overnight for best texture
  • Use a springform pan for cleaner slices
  • Add raisins or nuts to the filling for variation

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 9gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 280mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword baked dessert, cheesecake, cinnamon, comfort food, cottage cheese, retro recipes, torte, vintage dessert