Sweets and Sacrifices: A Salute for the Day of Valor

The Day of Valor, also known as Araw ng Kagitingan, is a national holiday in the Philippines observed every April 9th. It commemorates the heroism and sacrifices of Filipino and American soldiers during World War II, particularly the fall of Bataan and the Bataan Death March in 1942. It is a day to honor the bravery and resilience of those who fought for freedom and to remember the hardships endured during the war.

On this day, I also remember my paternal grandfather who fought as a guerilla in the WWII (https://ecency.com/teamph/@mdasein/day-of-valor-araw-ng-kagitingan?referral=mdasein)

To honor the fallen, Filipino and foreign alike, my wife and I decided to make a sweet tribute.

We made a Blueberry Cheesecake, and my wife is excited to share the recipe with you!

Ingredients:

Crust:

Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a sweet, slightly spiced, and crunchy base for the cheesecake.

Butter: Binds the crumbs together, creating a sturdy crust.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.

Cinnamon: For a warm, spiced flavor that complements the blueberries well.

Filling:

Cream cheese: The essential ingredient for a rich, creamy, and dense cheesecake texture. Full-fat cream cheese is crucial for the best results.

Cream: Adds extra creaminess and helps create a smoother, softer cheesecake texture.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the tanginess of the cream cheese.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and complexity.

Eggs: Act as binders, contributing to the structure and richness of the cheesecake.

Blueberry Topping:

Blueberries: The star ingredient! Provides sweetness, vibrant color, and a slightly tart flavor.

Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to release the juices of the blueberries, creating a sauce-like topping.

Equipment:

Large bowl
Medium bowl
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Small saucepan

Preparing the Crust:

Mix: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a medium bowl.

Press: Evenly press the crust mixture into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the aluminum tub.

Making the Filling:

Beat cream cheese: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Add sugar and cream: Gradually add sugar, beating until combined. Beat in cream.
Flavor: Add vanilla extract
Add eggs: Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing.

Assemble and Chill:

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
Then, chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

This blueberry cheesecake is our humble tribute to the memory of our valiant heroes.

By the way, I got in over 4,000 steps on my @Actifit while making this blueberry cheesecake – a delicious way to stay active!
#Teamph #hhguild #POB #WednesdayWalk #iamalivechallenge #PIMP