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Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert made primarily with a soft cheese like cream cheese, eggs, and sugar, typically on a crust of crushed graham crackers or cookies. It has ancient Greek origins, but the modern, dense, and creamy version is widely associated with American cuisine, especially from New York.
Cheesecake is generally high in fat and carbohydrates, with a moderate amount of protein from the cheese and eggs. A typical slice can range from 300 to 600 calories, providing calcium and some B vitamins.
Culturally, it's a versatile dessert that has evolved into countless variations worldwide, from Japanese cotton cheesecake to Italian ricotta-based versions. Nutritionally, its high fat content comes from dairy, which also makes it a significant source of calcium.