Cottage Cheese Cake

Cottage Cheese Cake - A Delicacy for Breakfast and Beyond

On a cool morning or when you crave a hearty and healthy snack, the cottage cheese cake is the perfect choice. This dish is not just a simple recipe, but an explosion of flavors, textures, and nostalgia. Cottage cheese, a protein-rich ingredient with low fat content, is the star of this fluffy cake that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones, especially the little ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

- 4 large eggs
- 400 g cottage cheese (make sure it is well-drained)
- 120 ml sunflower oil
- 500 g self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream

The Story of Cottage Cheese:

Cottage cheese is a versatile dairy product used for centuries in various recipes. It is rich in calcium, protein, and helps maintain bone health. The cottage cheese cake has become popular due to its delicate taste and fluffy texture, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or a snack between meals. Over time, it has been adapted in countless ways, with variations that include herbs or even sweet ingredients.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the cottage cheese is well-drained, so the cake doesn’t become too wet. Good cottage cheese is essential for achieving a fluffy and tasty cake.

2. Beating the Eggs: In the mixer bowl, add the eggs and mix them for 8 minutes at medium-high speed. This step is crucial, as the incorporated air will make the cake fluffier. Don’t rush, enjoy the process!

3. Adding the Oil: Once the eggs are well beaten, gradually add the sunflower oil while continuing to mix. This will add moisture and contribute to the final texture.

4. Incorporating the Flour: At this stage, add the flour, but reduce the mixer speed to medium-low. Mix until the flour is fully incorporated, being careful not to overdo it, as this will make the dough dense.

5. Spices and Cottage Cheese: Now is the time to add salt, pepper, oregano, and sour cream. Finally, add the well-drained cottage cheese. Use a spatula to gently fold it in, so as not to affect the airy texture of the mixture.

6. Preparing the Pan: Grease a round pan with oil and dust it with flour, making sure it is well coated. This step will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.

7. Baking: Pour the mixture into the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 170-180 degrees Celsius. Then, place the pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked.

8. Cooling and Serving: Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. It can be served warm or cold, alongside a cup of yogurt or sour cream for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

This cottage cheese cake is delicious both plain and with a side of fresh vegetables or a green salad. You can slice it and serve it as an appetizer at a festive meal. It’s also perfect for an outdoor picnic!

Possible Variations:

- Adding Greens: You can experiment with different herbs, adding dill or basil for a fresh note.
- Sweet Version: If you want a sweeter version, you can replace oregano with a bit of vanilla and add some dried fruits or nuts, turning the cake into an ideal dessert.
- Including Vegetables: Incorporate grated vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, for a more nutritious cake.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

Per serving, the cottage cheese cake has approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. It is rich in protein due to the cottage cheese and eggs, and the fiber intake can be increased by adding vegetables or whole grains. It is an excellent choice for those who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle without giving up taste.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use another type of cheese? Yes, you can use cottage cheese or ricotta, but the result will be different. Cottage cheese provides a unique texture.
2. How can I store the cake? Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a longer period.
3. Can I freeze it? Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

In conclusion, the cottage cheese cake is a versatile and healthy choice, ideal for any time of the day. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as part of a meal, it is a recipe that will surely become a favorite in your family. Try it and enjoy every delicious slice!