Cheese cake

Cheese and Raisin Cake – a delicate, quick, and delicious dessert!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

In a world full of sophisticated sweets, the cheese and raisin cake stands out for its refined simplicity. This recipe is perfect for moments when you need a quick dessert but don't want to compromise on taste. It's like a cheesecake without a crust, combining the creamy texture of cheese with the sweetness of raisins. Whether you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this recipe will help you achieve a perfect result.

The history of cheese cakes is ancient, with each culture having its own version. Whether it's cheesecake or other similar delights, the basic ingredients have remained constant: cheese, eggs, and a sweetener. Over time, people have added various elements to personalize the recipe, such as raisins or vanilla. This cake is a perfect example of how culinary traditions can evolve and adapt to contemporary tastes.

Ingredients:
- 6 eggs
- 300 g sugar
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 125 g butter (about ½ pack)
- 500 g sweet cheese
- 1 small glass of sour cream (about 150 g)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 4 tablespoons semolina
- 1 pinch of baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 100 g raisins (optional, you can also use other dried fruits)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It's important to use fresh ingredients to achieve a fluffy cake. Make sure the sweet cheese is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

2. Melting the butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. You can also use a microwave by placing it in a heat-resistant bowl. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the cheese mixture.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sweet cheese with the sugar, a pinch of salt, vanilla sugar, melted butter, sour cream, and egg yolks. Use an electric mixer to obtain a homogeneous mixture. This is where you can also add a few drops of vanilla or rum essence for extra flavor.

4. Incorporating dry ingredients: Sift the flour, semolina, and baking powder over the cheese mixture. Gently mix with a spatula until everything is well combined. It is essential not to overmix to keep the air in the mixture.

5. Beating the egg whites: Use another clean bowl to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will give the cake a fluffy, airy texture. Gradually add the egg whites to the cheese mixture, gently folding with a spatula to avoid deflating the foam.

6. Adding the raisins: Incorporate the raisins into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed. If desired, you can also use other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, to add a splash of color and flavor.

7. Preparing the baking pan: Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). Grease a baking tray (preferably 20x30 cm) with oil and semolina, or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. This is a crucial step to ensure the cake easily releases after baking.

8. Baking: Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and place it in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the surface turns golden and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven in the first 20 minutes to avoid deflating the cake.

9. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a plate and let it cool completely. Once cooled, dust it with sugar and decorate it as desired. Fresh mint leaves or a few berries can add an attractive touch.

10. Serving suggestions: This cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream. A fruit tea or fresh lemonade are excellent drinks to complement this dessert.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a more intense flavor, you can soak the raisins in a little rum or warm water before adding them to the mixture.
- You can replace the sweet cheese with ricotta for a finer texture.
- Instead of white sugar, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.

Nutritional benefits: This cake contains a good amount of protein due to the eggs and cheese, while raisins add fiber and antioxidants. It is a dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation, considering its caloric content.

Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving, depending on the exact ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can the cake be frozen? Yes, it can be frozen. Make sure it is well covered to prevent freezer burn.
2. Can I use cottage cheese? Yes, but the result will be different since cottage cheese has a wetter texture. It is recommended to drain it well before use.
3. How can I make the cake less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar by 50g or use a natural sweetener.

This cheese and raisin cake recipe is not only easy to make but also provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy moments spent in the kitchen. So, don’t hesitate and prepare this delicacy that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Savor every bite and let yourself be carried away by its wonderful flavors and aromas!