Cheese and Raisin Pie

Cheese and Raisin Pie - A Sweet and Creamy Delight

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-55 minutes
Servings: 8

Who doesn’t love a warm pie with a crispy crust and soft, flavorful filling? Cheese and raisin pie is a traditional dessert that brings joy to every meal, whether served at breakfast, as a snack, or as dessert at a family dinner. This simple and quick recipe will turn any occasion into a special moment, and its enticing flavors will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

History of Cheese Pie

The cheese pie is a dish that has traveled through time and has been reinterpreted in countless ways around the world. Its origins are linked to ancient culinary traditions when people used simple ingredients available in households. The combination of sweet cheese, raisins, and pastry sheets quickly became a favorite due to its contrasting texture and rich flavor.

Ingredients

- 1 package of pastry sheets (approximately 500 g)
- 500 g cheese (preferably cottage cheese or feta cheese for a more intense flavor)
- 200 g raisins (you can use golden raisins for a more delicate note)
- 6-7 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste; you can substitute with sweetener if preferred)
- 350 ml yogurt (approximately; Greek yogurt is an excellent option)
- 6 eggs (preferably free-range for a richer taste)
- Oil for greasing the pan (sunflower oil is ideal)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Thawing the Pastry Sheets: If using frozen pastry sheets, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. It is essential to gently stretch them to avoid tearing.

2. Preparing the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk the 6 eggs with a whisk until frothy. Add the yogurt and mix well. Incorporate the crumbled cheese, sugar, and raisins. Make sure the raisins are slightly hydrated (you can soak them in warm water for 10 minutes) so that they become soft and release their flavor into the filling.

3. Assembling the Pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Take a pastry sheet and place a portion of the cheese mixture (about 3-4 tablespoons) on one side of the sheet. Fold the sheet to wrap the filling. You can shape the pie as a roll or triangles, depending on your preference.

4. Greasing the Pan: Spread oil in the baking pan to prevent sticking. Place the pies in the pan, leaving a little space between them.

5. Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the pies for 30-40 minutes, until they become golden and crispy.

6. Finishing: About 10 minutes before taking the pies out of the oven, mix 100 ml of yogurt with 3 eggs and a tablespoon of sugar. Pour this mixture evenly over the pies and leave them in the oven for a few more minutes until set.

Serving

Serve the pies warm, dusted with a little sugar on top for a more appealing look. You can serve them alongside a scoop of Greek yogurt or with a vanilla sauce for an extra touch of flavor. These pies are excellent both warm and cold, making them perfect for any time of the day.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the Cheese: Cottage cheese is ideal for a creamy texture, but you can also experiment with feta or ricotta cheese for a different flavor.
- Raisins: If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can include some dried apricot pieces or cranberries.
- Vegan Option: You can replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water or crumbled tofu, and the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How can I store the pies?: They can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to regain their crispy texture.
- Can I freeze the pies?: Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place them in an airtight container and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- What drinks pair well with this pie?: A mint tea or cappuccino pairs perfectly with this sweet pie.

Nutritional Benefits

Cheese and raisin pie is not only a tasty dessert but also a good source of protein from cheese and eggs, as well as carbohydrates from the pastry sheets. Raisins are rich in antioxidants and provide a healthy dose of energy. Consumed in moderation, these pies can be a delicious choice in a balanced diet.

Personal Note

This cheese and raisin pie recipe reminds me of my childhood when my mother would make these pies for holidays. The enticing aroma that filled the house was simply irresistible. I invite you to try this recipe and create your own delicious memories in the kitchen.

Now that you have all the necessary details, it’s time to get to work and enjoy a warm portion of cheese and raisin pie! Every bite will bring a smile to your face and your loved ones, so don’t wait any longer!