Cheese and apple pie

Delicious Recipe for Cheese and Caramelized Apple Pie

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

The cheese and caramelized apple pie is a dessert that charmingly combines the sweetness of apples with the creaminess of cheese, bringing to the forefront the warm and comforting flavors of childhood. This recipe is not just a simple combination of ingredients, but a story of flavors that reminds us of moments spent around the table, sharing joys and memories with loved ones. Let’s begin the culinary adventure!

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 200 g sugar
- 4 eggs (separate the yolks from the whites)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 300 g flour
- grated zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the filling:
- 900 g cottage cheese (preferably well-drained)
- 300 g sour cream (with a high fat percentage for a creamier texture)
- 4 eggs
- 300 g sugar
- 3 tablespoons semolina
- 100 g raisins (previously soaked in water or rum)
- 40 g butter
- 2 apples (Golden or Granny Smith, depending on preference)
- grated zest of 1 lemon
- rum essence (for a deep and aromatic flavor)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. In a large bowl, mix the soft butter with the sugar until you obtain a creamy and homogeneous mixture. This step is essential, so make sure the butter is well incorporated.
2. Add the yolks one at a time, mixing vigorously after each addition to perfectly incorporate them into the dough.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. This combination will add a fresh note to your pie.
4. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the butter and egg mixture, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until you obtain a homogeneous dough.
5. Finally, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and gently fold them into the dough, being careful not to lose the air in the mixture. This step will make your pie light and fluffy.
6. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax and become easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the sour cream until you obtain a fine mixture. It is important to use well-drained cheese to avoid excess moisture in the pie.
2. Add the beaten eggs, 200 g of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences), semolina, and soaked raisins. Mix well until homogeneous.
3. Let the filling chill for 10 minutes to thicken slightly before adding it to the pie.

Step 3: Caramelizing the apples

1. In a pan, caramelize the remaining sugar (100 g) until it turns golden. Be careful not to burn it, as it will become bitter.
2. Add the butter and mix well until completely melted. Then, add the sliced apples and let them caramelize slightly, stirring occasionally. This step will add a unique sweetness to your pie.

Step 4: Assembling the pie

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet and line a baking dish with parchment paper, making sure the dough covers the sides of the dish.
3. Add 1/2 of the cheese mixture to the dish, followed by an even layer of caramelized apples (1/2 of the apples).
4. Pour the remaining cheese filling and top with the remaining apples along with the caramel from the pan.
5. Trim any excess dough from the edges and bake for about 50 minutes or until the pie is beautifully golden and the filling is set.

Serving and suggestions

Once the pie is baked, let it cool slightly before cutting. It is delicious warm or cold, and for an extra touch of flavor, you can serve it with a dollop of fresh sour cream or vanilla ice cream, which will perfectly contrast with the warmth of the pie.

Tips and useful advice

- Use apples of different varieties to achieve a pie with a diverse range of flavors. Tart apples, such as Granny Smith, add a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the filling.
- You can replace raisins with dried cranberries or nuts for a different texture.
- If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little extra flour, but avoid overdoing it to not affect the final texture.

Nutritional benefits

This cheese and apple pie not only offers a delightful taste but also valuable nutrients. Cottage cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, while apples provide fiber and antioxidants, essential for a balanced diet. Of course, it is a dessert, so it is best enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can replace cottage cheese with ricotta or goat cheese, but make sure to adjust the amount of sugar according to the sweetness of the ingredients used.

How can I store the pie?
The pie keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Is it possible to make the pie without eggs?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute (such as banana puree or applesauce) in the recipe, but the texture will be different.

Conclusion

The cheese and caramelized apple pie is not just a simple dessert but a true delight for the senses. With each bite, you feel how the flavors blend perfectly, bringing you closer to moments of happiness. So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your chef's clothes and prepare this delicious recipe for yourself and your loved ones, turning every meal into a celebration of flavors!