Cheese cake

Cottage Cheese Cake - A Soulful Dessert

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

If you are looking for a quick and simple dessert, yet full of flavor and taste, you have found the perfect recipe! The cottage cheese cake is a soft and aromatic treat that combines delicate textures with a subtle sweetness, bringing together childhood memories and moments of culinary indulgence. This recipe may have come into your hands by chance, but I promise you will happily repeat it!

A brief story about the cottage cheese cake

The origins of the cottage cheese cake are ancient, being a dessert appreciated for centuries in various cultures. From simple versions made with cottage cheese to more sophisticated ones with various toppings, this cake has evolved and adapted to local tastes and ingredients. In our version, the cottage cheese will show its true value, aided by sour cream and the natural flavors of lemon.

Necessary ingredients

For the cake:
- 1.2 kg cottage cheese (preferably high quality, fresh)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional, depending on the texture of the cheese)
- 350 g sugar
- 10 eggs (at room temperature)
- 3 egg yolks (for the glaze)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Grated zest of 2 lemons (for a fresh taste)
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (for lining the pan)

For the glaze:
- Grated chocolate or a few tablespoons of chocolate cream (for an elegant appearance and rich flavor)

Step by step for a perfect result

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by taking all the ingredients out of the fridge to reach room temperature. This step is essential to ensure good homogenization of the mixture. Also, make sure that the cottage cheese is well drained to avoid the cake becoming too wet.

2. Mixing the cheese
In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese and start to mash it with a wooden spoon, adding sour cream (if needed). Mix until you obtain a smooth and creamy paste, without lumps.

3. Adding the eggs
Add the sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix. Then, add the eggs one by one, ensuring that each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy texture.

4. Delicious aroma
After you have incorporated all the eggs, add the lemon zest and a pinch of salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors in the mixture.

5. Preparing the pan
Preheat the oven to 160°C. Grease a pan with butter and line it with breadcrumbs, making sure to cover the sides evenly. This will help the cake to come out easily after baking.

6. Pouring the mixture
Carefully pour the cheese mixture into the prepared pan, leveling the surface with a spatula. This is the moment when you can let your creativity shine: you can add, for example, some raisins or pieces of candied fruit for an extra texture and flavor.

7. The glaze
Beat the 3 egg yolks with a tablespoon of sugar and spread them evenly over the mixture in the pan. This will form a delicious golden crust during baking.

8. Baking
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 40-45 minutes. It is important to check it from time to time, and when it rises slightly and becomes golden on top, it is a sign that it is ready.

9. Cooling and serving
After being taken out of the oven, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Use a knife to detach the edges from the sides, then carefully turn it onto a platter. You can decorate the cake with grated chocolate or chocolate cream for an elegant look.

10. Enjoying the moment
The cottage cheese cake can be served warm or cold, and I warmly recommend pairing it with a glass of rosé wine, as my cousin Roxy tells me, who was the inspiration for this recipe. It is perfect for both a festive meal and a quiet afternoon.

Useful tips
- If your cheese is too wet, you can adjust the amount of sour cream to avoid a too soft texture.
- Try to use high-quality cottage cheese for a better taste.
- If you want a more aromatic cake, you can add a few drops of vanilla essence or a splash of rum.
- You can experiment with various toppings, such as fruit jam or caramel sauce, to diversify the tasting experience.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use store-bought cottage cheese?
Yes, but make sure it is well drained and of good quality to achieve the best results.

2. How can I tell if the cake is ready?
The cake is ready when it turns golden on top and feels firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean.

3. Can the cottage cheese cake be frozen?
Yes, I recommend letting it cool completely, then wrapping it well in cling film and freezing it. When you want to consume it, let it thaw in the fridge.

4. What other desserts can I try?
If you like this recipe, I recommend trying other variations, such as classic cheesecake, yogurt cake, or fruit tart.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! The cottage cheese cake will surely win you over with its simplicity and refinement. Enjoy your meal!