Cheese Pastry without Dough

Cheese Pastry without Dough – a Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

When it comes to spring holidays, cheese pastry is a symbol of tradition and joy. This no-dough pastry recipe is a simple yet delicious variant that will delight your family and friends. Without the need for complicated dough, this pastry is quick to prepare and perfect for those who want to bring a touch of tradition to the holiday table without too much effort.

Ingredients

- 500 g cottage cheese (preferably well-drained for a fine texture)
- 5 large eggs
- 300 g sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 200 g sugar (you can adjust the amount to your preference)
- 1 package of butter (about 200 g, softened at room temperature)
- 4 tablespoons of semolina
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 100 g raisins (soaked in rum for an intense flavor)
- 50 ml rum (or warm water for a non-alcoholic version)
- Flavors (vanilla essence or lemon zest)
- Cranberries (for decoration – optional)

Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by taking all the ingredients out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you begin cooking. The cottage cheese should be well-drained to avoid a too-wet composition. If using raisins, soak them in rum for at least 15 minutes to enrich their flavor.

2. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with a pinch of salt and sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to achieve a fluffy mixture. Well-beaten eggs will make the pastry fluffier.

3. Adding the cheese: Incorporate the cottage cheese into the egg mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently mix, so you don't destroy the air in the eggs. Add the softened butter and continue mixing until the mixture is homogeneous.

4. Dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the semolina and flour. This step helps to avoid lumps in the final composition. Incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring constantly.

5. Sour cream and flavors: Now, add the sour cream and your preferred flavors (vanilla or lemon zest). Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Finally, add the soaked raisins, stirring carefully to disperse them evenly.

6. Preparing the mold: Grease a cake pan with butter and dust it with flour. This step is essential to prevent the pastry from sticking. Pour the mixture into the mold and level the surface with a spatula. If desired, you can create a cross with cranberries, symbolizing the Easter tradition.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to a low temperature (about 160°C). Bake the pastry for 60 minutes. It is important to check the pastry periodically; if the surface browns too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil. The pastry is done when it feels firm to the touch but still slightly moist in the middle.

8. Cooling: Once the pastry is baked, let it cool in the mold for 30 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to avoid unsightly cracks on the surface.

9. Serving: Once cooled, dust the pastry with sugar. This not only adds an attractive appearance but also a sweet and delicious taste. Serve the pastry with a glass of sweet wine or a fragrant tea for a perfect experience.

Chef's tip

If you want a healthier version, replace the butter with an equal amount of coconut or olive oil. You can also experiment by adding other dried fruits or nuts to the mixture. A version with goat cheese can add a distinct and savory note.

Nutritional benefits

Cheese pastry is an excellent source of protein due to the cheese and eggs. Additionally, sour cream provides healthy fats, while raisins offer fiber and antioxidants. Depending on the chosen ingredients, a serving of pastry can have approximately 350-400 calories.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use goat cheese or ricotta, but make sure to adjust the amounts of sugar and sour cream to achieve a similar consistency.

- How should I store the pastry?
Keep the pastry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to preserve its flavor and texture.

- What other recipes can I try?
Try pairing this pastry with a fluffy sweet bread or a fruit cake for a complete Easter feast. Also, a sweet white wine or lemon tea pairs perfectly with the pastry.

Conclusion

This no-dough cheese pastry recipe is not only easy to make but also delicious, bringing a touch of tradition to your table. Try it, and you'll discover how simple it is to create a refined dessert that will impress everyone. Whether you prepare it for holidays or simply to treat yourself, cheese pastry will surely become a favorite in your family. Enjoy!