Baked pudding

The perfect dessert for cheese and pasta lovers – Baked Pudding

If you are looking for a quick and delicious dessert that will impress both family and friends, then baked pudding is the ideal choice. This simple recipe combines the soft and creamy texture of cheese with the unmistakable flavor of lemon, offering a unique taste. It is a dish that has crossed generations, often associated with moments of joy in the family. Let's get to work!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

- 700 g cow telemea cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 600 g pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 10 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon of lemon essence
- 7 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream
- Butter for greasing the pan

Preparation:

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, add water and a little oil. Place it over medium heat and wait for it to boil. Add salt and the pasta, then boil according to the package instructions until al dente. After boiling, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Preparing the cheese mixture: Use a large grater to grate the telemea cheese. This will help the cheese melt evenly in the oven. In a large bowl, add the grated cheese, lemon zest, lemon essence, sugar, vanilla sugar, and sour cream. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

3. Incorporating the eggs: Crack the eggs, one by one, into the cheese bowl, stirring constantly to achieve a smooth mixture. The eggs will add a fluffy texture to your pudding.

4. Preheating the oven: Before continuing, preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). It should be well heated to ensure even baking.

5. Preparing the pan: Grease a baking dish with butter, making sure it is evenly coated. This step is important to prevent the pudding from sticking to the pan.

6. Combining the pasta with the cheese mixture: Add the boiled pasta to the pan. Pour the cheese mixture over the pasta and gently stir with a spoon so that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This will ensure consistent flavor in every bite.

7. Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. The pudding will be ready when a light golden crust forms on top and the inside is well set.

8. Serving: Allow the pudding to cool for a few minutes before cutting. You can serve it plain or alongside a fruit jam, such as cherry or raspberry, which will add a pleasant contrast of acidity.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the cheese: If you don’t have telemea, you can use cottage cheese, ricotta, or even feta. Each type of cheese will provide a different flavor, so feel free to experiment.
- Variations: You can add dried fruits, nuts, or even chocolate to customize the baked pudding. These ingredients will add a touch of originality to the dish.
- Frequently asked questions:
- *Can the pudding be frozen?* It is not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.
- *How do I know when it is ready?* Check if it is firm in the middle; if it wobbles, let it bake a few more minutes.

Nutritional benefits:
Baked pudding is a good source of protein due to the eggs and cheese, while the pasta provides essential carbohydrates for energy. It can be a satisfying dessert, but given its sugar content, it is best enjoyed in moderation.

By trying this recipe, you will not only indulge in a delicious dessert but also bring a piece of culinary traditions into your own kitchen. I recommend serving it alongside herbal tea or freshly squeezed lemonade to complete the culinary experience.

Enjoy making this baked pudding and don’t forget to share your successes with loved ones!