If you’re looking to impress with a dish that’s both elegant and surprisingly simple, then this Cheesecake au Saumon Fumé Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a savory take on cheesecake that pairs the creamy richness of mascarpone and ricotta with the delicate, smoky flavors of smoked salmon—perfect for weekend brunches, holiday appetizers, or any time you want something special without fuss.
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Why You’ll Love This
Cheesecake au Saumon Fumé brings together creamy, tangy cheeses with the subtle, smoky flair of smoked salmon, making for an appetizer that’s both luxurious and approachable. It’s impressively easy to prepare, yet the flavors feel gourmet enough to wow your guests.
- Reliable Texture, Great Flavor: The blend of mascarpone and ricotta creates a smooth, creamy filling that balances perfectly with the smoky salmon.
- Crisp–Golden Finish: The buttery cracker base bakes to a satisfying, lightly crisp layer that holds everything beautifully.
- Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: You’ll use simple favorites like crackers, fresh herbs, and spices most kitchens already have on hand.
- Weeknight Easy, Weekend Worthy: Prep takes just minutes, with a chill time that lets you relax—perfect for planning ahead.
Ingredient Snapshot
When I shop for this Cheesecake au Saumon Fumé Recipe, I prioritize freshness with every ingredient—especially the smoked salmon and fresh dill. Using quality mascarpone and ricotta really lifts the creamy filling, while buttery crackers add that essential crunchy base.
- Crackers Tuc: Opt for a classic, buttery cracker that will form a firm, crisp base without overpowering the filling.
- Beurre fondu (Melted butter): Use unsalted butter to control salt levels precisely; this adds richness to the base.
- Ricotta: Fresh and creamy ricotta adds gentle tanginess and moisture – avoid watery or overly dry versions.
- Mascarpone: This makes the filling smooth and velvety; look for authentic mascarpone with a mild sweetness.
- Saumon fumé (Smoked salmon): Choose thinly sliced, high-quality smoked salmon with a delicate smoke flavor.
- Dill (Aneth): Fresh dill is crucial for a vibrant herbal note — don’t substitute with dried.
- Baies roses (Pink peppercorns): Crush them for a pop of fruity spice that complements the salmon beautifully.
- Huile d'olive (Olive oil): A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness with subtle fruity depth.
- Piment d'Espelette: Adds a gentle warmth and smoky flavor; adjust carefully to your taste.
Quick Note: Exact measurements and steps are outlined in the printable recipe card at the bottom for easy reference.
How to Make Cheesecake au Saumon Fumé Recipe
Step 1 — Set Up & Season
Start by crumbling your Tuc crackers finely—no big chunks here, just a sandy texture that will hold together when mixed with melted butter. Stir in the warm, melted butter until every crumb is moistened, giving you a fragrant mix that smells a little nutty and toasty. Press this mixture firmly into 8 cm diameter circles on a baking tray lined with parchment; I find using lightly oiled metal rings makes this super straightforward and neat. Pop them into your preheated oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes, just until the bases turn golden and slightly crisp. Let them cool completely so they set and crisp up fully before adding any filling.
Step 2 — Mix the Savory Filling for Your Cheesecake au Saumon Fumé Recipe
I like to set aside a few salmon strips for garnish—this is key for that beautiful finishing touch. Then chop the rest into fine pieces—this lets the smoky salmon disperse evenly, infusing every bite with flavor. In a mixing bowl, combine mascarpone and ricotta with the chopped dill and crushed pink peppercorns. When you add your salmon, fold everything gently but thoroughly; the filling should feel rich but not heavy or overmixed. Season lightly with salt, and stir in a hint of Espelette pepper to lift the flavors without overwhelming the delicate salmon.
Step 3 — Finish for Best Texture & Chill
Place your crisp, cooled cracker bases on serving plates (removing the rings if used). Spoon or pipe the salmon mixture evenly into each base, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Refrigerate these cheesecakes for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up to that lovely, sliceable texture. When ready, carefully remove the baking rings if you haven’t already, and adorn each cheesecake with the reserved smoked salmon strips—this final touch adds elegance and a burst of visual appeal.
Smart Little Tips
From my kitchen to yours, these little pointers will help you master this recipe with ease and precision, avoiding common hiccups and boosting flavor.
- Doneness Cue: The cracker base should be golden and crisp but not browned or burnt; it takes about 10 minutes at 180°C to get just right.
- Temperature Trick: Always use room temperature mascarpone and ricotta to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Make-Ahead Move: This cheesecake keeps beautifully chilled for up to 24 hours before serving, which actually improves the flavor melding.
- Avoid This Pitfall: Don’t skip cooling the crust fully before adding the filling, or you risk soggy textures.
Serving Ideas
Finishing Touches
A drizzle of good-quality olive oil over each portion adds a glossy, fruity note that complements the creaminess. I also love sprinkling a few fresh dill fronds or some finely cracked pink peppercorns on top for fragrance and a hint of crunch. A squeeze of lemon zest can add a bright contrast if you want a tangy zing that wakes up your palate.
Pair It With
This savory cheesecake is fantastic with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette for freshness. For drinks, a chilled glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling rosé pairs beautifully, balancing the richness with acidity.
Easy Plating Upgrades
Serve each portion on a stylish plate with edible flowers or microgreens for subtle elegance. You can also add thin cucumber ribbons or radish slices alongside for a refreshing crunch and pop of color. These small details impress guests with zero extra fuss.
Make-Ahead, Store & Reheat
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Cheesecake au Saumon Fumé in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the garnish separate if you like, to maintain its fresh appearance and texture. The filling might firm up further but stays delicious and creamy.
Freezing Tips
This recipe doesn’t freeze very well due to the fresh cheese and salmon, which can lose their texture and flavor in the freezer. I wouldn’t recommend freezing; instead, enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days.
Reheating Cheesecake au Saumon Fumé Recipe Without Drying Out
You actually want to enjoy this cheesecake chilled, but if you prefer a slight warmth, gently warm it in a low oven (about 100°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can overcook the filling and dry out the salmon.
Frequently Asked Questions
While mascarpone adds a creamy silkiness, you can use cream cheese for a similar result, though the flavor will be slightly tangier. Just soften it well before mixing.
Make sure to bake the cracker base until golden and cool it completely before adding the filling. This sets a sturdy, dry crust that resists moisture.
Absolutely. Prepare it up to two days ahead, keep it refrigerated, and add fresh garnishes right before serving for best results.
You can substitute with a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper or pink peppercorns if available to maintain that subtle peppery sweetness.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cheesecake au Saumon Fumé Recipe felt like bringing a slice of Parisian flair into my kitchen. It’s surprisingly approachable, yet each bite feels indulgent with the creamy blend and smoky seafood notes. I hope when you try it, you find it as charming and delicious as I do—something to share with loved ones or savor quietly on your own.
PrintPrint Recipe
Cheesecake au Saumon Fumé Recipe
A sophisticated and creamy smoked salmon cheesecake with a crunchy cracker base, flavored with fresh dill, pink peppercorns, and a hint of Espelette pepper. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or light starter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Base
- 200g crackers Tuc (approximately 1 packet)
- 60g melted butter
Filling
- 300g ricotta cheese
- 150g mascarpone cheese
- 200g smoked salmon
- 1 bunch fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon pink peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Espelette pepper to taste
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Crumble the crackers Tuc finely and mix them thoroughly with the melted butter. Divide this mixture into 4 portions inside 8 cm diameter rings placed on a baking tray. Bake at 180°C for 10 minutes until golden and firm. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Prepare the filling: Reserve 4 strips of smoked salmon for garnish. Chop the remaining salmon finely. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pink peppercorns, ricotta, mascarpone, and chopped fresh dill. Fold in the chopped smoked salmon, season with salt, and add a pinch of Espelette pepper to taste. Mix gently until well combined.
- Assemble the cheesecakes: Place the cooled cracker bases on serving plates using the lightly oiled rings to keep the shape. Evenly distribute the salmon mixture inside each ring, then smooth the tops with a spatula. Refrigerate for 2 hours to set.
- Finish and serve: Carefully remove the rings and decorate each cheesecake with a reserved strip of smoked salmon on top. Serve chilled as a stylish appetizer.
Notes
- You can substitute crackers Tuc with digestive biscuits or graham crackers for a different flavor.
- For a stronger smoky flavor, use smoked salmon with visible smoky marbling.
- Adjust the amount of Espelette pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- The cheesecake can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated to develop flavors.
- If no ring molds are available, use small ramekins lined with plastic wrap to shape the base and filling.
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