Cheese and raisin pie

Cheese and raisin pie is a simple dessert, but with a rich flavor and delicate texture, combining the fresh taste of cheese with the sweetness of raisins. This traditional recipe has been appreciated over time and has become a favorite among those looking for a quick and delicious dessert. It is perfect for serving at a family meal, at a party, or simply for indulging yourself on the weekend.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 3 large eggs
- 15 tablespoons of milk
- 15 tablespoons of sugar
- 15 tablespoons of oil
- 16 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda extinguished with lemon juice
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Grated zest of one orange and one lemon
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 1 kg of ricotta (or cottage cheese, according to preference)
- 500 g of feta cheese
- 1 egg
- Sugar, to taste (between 100-200 g)
- Rum essence, to taste (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- 100 g of raisins (optional, but highly recommended)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the crust

1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and sugar until you get a frothy, light-colored mixture. It is important to take time for this step, as the air incorporated into the mixture will make the crust fluffier.

2. Gradually add the oil and milk, continuing to mix. You can use a whisk or a mixer on low speed.

3. In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking soda and vanilla sugar. Sift the mixture to eliminate any lumps.

4. Gently incorporate the flour mixture into the egg mixture, mixing lightly until all ingredients are well combined. If desired, you can also add the grated zest of orange and lemon for extra flavor.

5. Finally, beat the egg whites until foamy and carefully fold them into the batter using a spatula to maintain the airy texture.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta with the feta cheese, crushed or crumbled, according to preference. Add the egg, sugar, and rum essence. Mix well until homogeneous.

2. If you like raisins, add them now to the cheese mixture. If using dried raisins, you can soak them in warm water for 15 minutes before incorporating them to make them fluffier.

Step 3: Assembling the pie

1. Preheat the oven to 160-165 degrees Celsius.

2. Line a medium-sized baking tray (approximately 30x40 cm) with baking paper or grease it with a little oil and sprinkle flour.

3. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first part in the tray, smoothing it with a spatula.

4. Pour the cheese filling and level it well.

5. Cover with the second sheet of dough, spreading it evenly over the filling.

Step 4: Baking

1. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the pie for 40-50 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

2. After baking, let the pie cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

3. Finally, dust with powdered sugar before serving. This will add an elegant look and a touch of sweetness.

Useful tips

- About cheese: If you don't have cottage cheese or ricotta, you can use ricotta or goat cheese to add a different flavor to the pie.
- Variations: You can replace raisins with other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries. Additionally, adding chopped nuts or hazelnuts can provide a pleasant contrast of textures.
- Serving: The pie is served warm or at room temperature, alongside a scoop of yogurt or sour cream for a delicious contrast.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use soy cheese? Yes, if you want a vegan option, you can use soy cheese or well-drained tofu.
2. How can I make the pie less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or in the crust, depending on your preferences.
3. Can the pie be frozen? Yes, the pie can be frozen, but it is recommended to portion it before freezing for easier thawing.

Calories and nutritional benefits

The cheese and raisin pie has approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It provides a good source of protein due to the cheeses, as well as a dose of carbohydrates from sugar and flour. Raisins add fiber and antioxidants, making this dessert not only a culinary pleasure but also a healthier choice.

In conclusion, cheese and raisin pie is a versatile dessert that can be adapted to everyone's tastes. I invite you to try this flavorful recipe and enjoy the moments spent with loved ones, savoring every bite of this delicious pie! Enjoy your meal!