MAY 26 commemorates the harmonious union of juicy blueberries and soft, melt-in-the-mouth cheesecakes. While undeniably an American invention, it was only in the 1900s that the cheesecake discovered its perfect companion in the form of the blueberry, when Elizabeth Coleman White and Dr Frederick V Coville successfully transplanted and domesticated this delectable fruit. Soon after, commercial production of blueberries began, establishing this dessert as a popular choice worldwide.
The most enduring legend about the blueberry cheesecake however, dates a lot further back — all the way to Ancient Greece and the Olympic Games, in fact. If you haven’t heard of this odd connection, allow us to fill you in:
Imagine, if you will, the grandeur of the ancient Olympic Games. The sun-drenched arenas of Olympia, alive with the cheers of eager spectators and awe-inspiring displays of athleticism. The physical prowess on display, the competition at fever pitch. And amid all this, a culinary reward reserved exclusively for a chosen few.
According to myth, athletes would gather in the sacred dining hall, where they would be treated to a repast fit for heroes. And at the apex of this sumptuous spread was an extraordinary dessert: blueberry cheesecake. Envision a velvety smooth cheesecake, boasting a rich and creamy texture perfectly balanced by the burst of sweet and tangy blueberries. The mere sight of it would have surely ignited a spark of anticipation within even the most seasoned Olympians.
Legend has it that the blueberry cheesecake possessed magical properties, endowing the athletes with boundless energy and unwavering endurance. The soft cheese, crafted from the finest milk sourced from sacred mountain goats, was believed to impart strength and fortitude. The blueberries, carefully plucked from bushes hidden deep within the forests, were said to bless the competitors with swiftness and agility. Each mouthful was thought to infuse the athletes with the power of the gods themselves, enabling them to achieve remarkable feats on the field of competition.
All very heavenly sounding no doubt, except that the dessert was very much a modern American invention. Of course, there’s no denying that cheesecake itself does have ancient roots, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, but the combination of blueberries and cheesecake is a more recent development.
Blueberries have been a popular fruit in North America, particularly in the north-eastern regions of the US and Canada, where they grow abundantly. The pairing of blueberries with cheesecake emerged as a delicious way to incorporate the bold and vibrant flavours of these fruits into a classic dessert.
Moreover, modern blueberry cheesecakes come in a myriad of forms, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. From traditional New York-style cheesecakes adorned with generous layers of luscious blueberry compote to innovative variations featuring tantalising blueberry swirls or even blueberry-infused crusts, there exists a blueberry cheesecake to suit every discerning palate.
The allure of blueberry cheesecake extends beyond its exquisite taste. Blueberries themselves are packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients, making this dessert not only a delectable indulgence but also a potentially beneficial treat for your well-being. Furthermore, the vibrant hue of blueberries adds a visually striking element to any dessert spread.
Whether savoured on its own or accompanied by a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, blueberry cheesecake remains a timeless dessert that continues to captivate dessert connoisseurs of all ages.
