Cheese pie

Cheese Pie: A Classic Comfort Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Who doesn't love a slice of cheese pie? This simple and delicious cheese pie recipe is a true treat, perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of hot tea or a glass of cold milk. The cheese pie has a long history, being prepared in various forms and variations over time, bringing joy and comfort to family tables. Let's discover together how to prepare a perfect cheese pie!

Necessary ingredients

For the dough:
- 500-600 g flour
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (about 25 g)
- 250 ml lukewarm milk
- 70 g margarine
- 1 tablespoon lard (optional, for a richer taste)
- 100 g sugar (or to taste)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 3 eggs
- 150 g sugar (or to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons semolina

Step by step for a perfect result

1. Preparing the yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast cube in 30 ml lukewarm water, adding a teaspoon of sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix well and let it sit for 10 minutes until the yeast doubles in volume. This step is essential to activate the yeast and achieve a fluffy dough.

2. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, sift the flour and make a well in the center. Add the activated yeast, melted margarine, lard (if using), one egg, 100 g sugar, and lukewarm milk gradually. Mix with a spatula or by hand until the dough starts to come together.

3. Kneading
Knead the dough on a well-greased or floured work surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it is too sticky, add a little flour, and if it is too hard, add milk. An experienced housewife knows how to recognize the right texture of the dough, which should be soft but not sticky.

4. Letting it rise
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume. This time is perfect for preparing the filling ingredients!

5. Preparing the filling
In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the 3 eggs, 150 g sugar, lemon zest, vanilla sugar, and semolina. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. The taste of the filling will depend on the sweetness of the cheese, so adjust the sugar to your liking.

6. Assembling the pie
After the dough has risen, divide it into two. Roll out each part into a thin sheet, ensuring it is even. Place the first sheet in a greased baking dish. Add the cheese filling and cover with the second sheet. Seal the edges to prevent the filling from leaking.

7. Preparing for baking
Beat an egg yolk and brush it over the pie for a golden and glossy crust. This will give your pie an appetizing appearance.

8. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until it is golden and crispy. It is recommended to check the pie after the first 30 minutes to ensure it does not burn.

9. Cooling and serving
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the dish for 15-20 minutes. Once cooled, cut it into servings and serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a fruit sauce. The pie is even better the next day when the flavors have intensified!

Useful tips and variations

- Adjusting the filling: You can add raisins or pieces of fruit to the cheese filling for a diverse taste and texture. Additionally, a teaspoon of vanilla extract can add extra flavor.
- Flour: You can experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture of the pie may vary.
- Serving: This pie pairs perfectly with a warm tea or a glass of milk. Additionally, vanilla ice cream could perfectly complement this dessert.

Nutritional benefits

Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins, while eggs provide an additional source of essential nutrients. Flour offers carbohydrates, and semolina can contribute to a pleasant texture and satiety. Although this pie is more caloric, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use ricotta or goat cheese, but make sure it is not too salty.

2. What do I do if my dough doesn't rise?
Make sure the yeast is fresh and that you have left the dough in a warm and humid place.

3. How can I store the pie?
Keep the pie covered at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a week.

This cheese pie recipe is not only a culinary delight but also an opportunity to spend quality time in the kitchen. Enjoy every step of cooking and savor the final result!