Celebrating National Cheesecake Day with chefs from the Arab world

Celebrating National Cheesecake Day with chefs from the Arab world

National cheesecake day

To celebrate National Cheesecake Day, four chefs from the Middle East unveil the latest cheesecake trends sweeping the region.

Cheesecake trends in Dubai

In Dubai, we are fortunate to experience influences from all around the world, enhancing our culinary offerings significantly. Consequently, this means we can serve a delightful array of cheesecakes, from the rich baked New York cheesecake to the trendy Basque cheesecake.

Additionally, we offer the creamy, fridge-set cheesecake, catering to various preferences. They are beautifully paired with local fruits, roasted nuts and even chocolate, creating unique flavor combinations.

Moreover, a standout on our menu at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront is the kunafah cheesecake, which highlights cheesecake’s adaptability. This local touch not only showcases the versatility of cheesecake but also celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Ultimately, our diverse selection underscores Dubai’s vibrant food scene, making it a true culinary destination for dessert enthusiasts.

Ran Vijay Deo Executive sous chef Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront

Ran Vijay Deo
Executive sous chef
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront
@radissonbludubaiwaterfront

Cheesecake trends in Qatar

With an increasing number of restaurants, hotels and shops, Qatar has become a sought-after destination for visitors to explore. Consequently, the diverse and dynamic culinary scene, including the mouthwatering charm of cheesecakes, attracts food enthusiasts from around the world.

Furthermore, being a hub for international cuisine, burnt cheesecake, also known as Basque cheesecake, has become incredibly popular in Qatar. Originating in the Basque country, a region in northern Spain and southern France, this cheesecake trend was started by chef Santiago Rivera.

Notably, characterized by a beautifully burnt top that conceals a creamy, custard-like center, the Basque cheesecake offers a unique flavor. The appealing taste lies in its straightforward yet rich flavor, balancing sweetness with a subtle hint of bitterness.

Moreover, this decadent dessert can be found in various cafes across the country, including the Palm Garden at Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha. Currently, it is proudly featured as part of the Cake of the Week promotion for the entire summer season.

Renowned for its distinctive texture and delightful taste, the Basque cheesecake has become a beloved indulgence among locals and expats alike. Consequently, its popularity continues to grow, making it one of the best-selling desserts in Qatar.

Anura Perera Pastry chef Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha radissonblu.com/hotel-doha

Anura Perera
Pastry chef
Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha
radissonblu.com/hotel-doha
@radissonbluhoteldoha

Cheesecake trend in the Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, the cheesecake trend has been rapidly growing in popularity, driven by a burgeoning café culture and social media. Consequently, many new and trendy cafés in Riyadh and Jeddah offer a variety of cheesecake flavors with modern twists. Moreover, international cheesecake brands have entered the market, contributing to the variety and availability of this beloved dessert. Additionally, local bakeries and home bakers create their own versions, blending traditional Middle Eastern flavors like saffron, rose and pistachio. This fusion of flavors has made cheesecake a sought-after dessert for both everyday indulgence and special occasions. Overall, the trend reflects broader changes in the Saudi culinary scene, where traditional tastes are reinvented to meet contemporary preferences.

Salah ElSayed Ramadan Pastry chef Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort @radissoncollectionriyadh

Salah ElSayed Ramadan
Pastry chef
Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort
@radissoncollectionriyadh
radissonhotels.com/collection

Cheesecake trends in Bahrain

Sweet and slightly tangy aftertaste, cheesecake appeals to dessert lovers. The crust is typically made with a mixture of graham crackers or digestive biscuits and butter, enhancing its taste. If it’s a baked cheesecake, the addition of eggs and cornstarch results in a denser, more indulgent texture.

Consequently, it is popular for good reason; it offers a unique flavor enjoyed chilled or warm, with or without toppings. Furthermore, its versatility is truly remarkable, making it a favorite choice for various occasions.

Notably, there is a wide variety of cheesecakes available, each offering its own set of delightful flavors and textures. In Bahrain, the New York cheesecake is particularly popular due to its delightful combination of tangy flavor, sweetness, crust base, and smoothness of the cheese.

As a result, it is the most favored dessert not only in our hotel but also across the town.

Mohammed Tanvir Pastry sous chef The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa Bahrain

Mohammed Tanvir
Pastry sous chef
The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa Bahrain
radissonblu.com/en/diplomathotel-bahrain
@diplomatradissonblu

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About author

Rita Ghantous

Rita Ghantous is a hospitality aficionado and a passionate writer with over 9 years’ experience in journalism and 5 years experience in the hospitality sector. Her passion for the performance arts and writing, started early. At 10 years old she was praised for her solo performance of the Beatles song “All My Love” accompanied by a guitarist, and was approached by a French talent scout during her school play. However, her love for writing was stronger. Fresh out of school, she became a freelance journalist for Noun Magazine and was awarded the Silver Award Cup for Outstanding Poetry, by The International Library of Poetry (Washington DC). She studied Business Management and earned a Masters degree from Saint Joseph University (USJ), her thesis was published in the Proche-Orient, Études en Management book. She then pursued a career in the hospitality industry but didn’t give up writing, that is why she launched the Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Newsletter. Her love for the industry and journalism led her to Hospitality Services - the organizers of the HORECA trade show in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, as well as Salon Du Chocolat, Beirut Cooking Festival, Whisky Live and other regional shows. She is currently the Publications Executive of Hospitality News Middle East, Taste & Flavors and Lebanon Traveler. It is with ultimate devotion for her magazines that she demonstrates her hospitality savoir-faire.

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