Cheese pie

Cheese Pie – a traditional delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Who doesn't love a cheese pie? This is a simple recipe, yet rich in flavor, that will take you back to warm childhood memories. It is a quick dessert, perfect for any occasion, whether you are preparing for a festive meal or want to treat your family to something special.

The ingredients are accessible, and the preparation method is easy to follow, even for those who are just starting out in the kitchen.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 package of pastry sheets (approximately 400 g)
- 5 eggs
- 1 package of butter (approximately 250 g)
- 250 g telemea cheese (preferably cow's milk)
- 200 g sour cream
- 1 kg sweet cheese (preferably cow's milk, but you can also use goat cheese for a more intense flavor)
- 250 g sugar (or to taste)
- a pinch of salt

Useful tips for ingredients:

- Cheese: Choose good quality sweet cheese, as it will significantly influence the taste of the pie. You can use fresh cow cheese or sheep cheese, depending on your preferences.
- Telemea: This adds a salty taste and a delicious contrast to the sweet cheese. If you don't have telemea, you can use feta cheese or even ricotta.
- Pastry sheets: Make sure the sheets are of good quality, as they form the base of the pie. You can use homemade or store-bought pastry sheets. It is important to let them thaw (if frozen) for easier use.

Preparing the pie:

1. Preparing the filling: Start by grating the telemea cheese or, if you prefer, you can blend it well in a food processor. In a large bowl, add the sweet cheese, grated telemea, eggs, sour cream, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Find joy in mixing, feeling how the flavors blend.

2. Melting the butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Be careful not to let it reach the boiling point, as it will become bitter. By letting it melt slowly, you will get creamy butter, perfect for greasing the pastry sheets.

3. Preparing the baking dish: Take a deeper baking dish and grease it with a brush dipped in melted butter. This step will help prevent the pie from sticking and will add a delicious taste.

4. Assembling the pie: Place a first layer of pastry sheets in the dish. Grease each sheet with melted butter, then add another layer. You will repeat this process three times, ensuring that each layer is well-greased. Then, in the middle, use a ladle to add the cheese mixture, distributing it evenly. Continue alternating between sheets and filling until you finish all the ingredients. Make sure the last layer consists of pastry sheets, which you will grease again with butter.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the pie on low heat until it becomes golden and crispy on top, approximately 40-50 minutes.

6. Finishing: Once the pie is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant appearance and a sweet taste.

Serving:

The cheese pie can be enjoyed both warm and cold, making it a versatile dessert. You can serve it alongside a scoop of sour cream or yogurt, and for an extra flavor boost, add some fresh fruits like raspberries or blackberries.

Nutritional information:

This pie is rich in protein due to the cheese and eggs, also providing a good source of calcium. However, considering the amount of butter and sugar, it is best enjoyed in moderation. Each serving contains approximately 320-400 calories, depending on portioning and the ingredients used.

Possible variations:

- Adding fruits: You can incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or figs into the cheese mixture for a more complex flavor.
- Additional flavors: Experiment with vanilla extract or lemon zest in the cheese mixture to add an extra flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can replace the sweet cheese with ricotta or goat cheese for a different taste.

2. How can I store the pie?
It is recommended to store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, to maintain its freshness.

3. Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Thaw it completely before baking.

This cheese pie recipe is more than just a simple dessert; it is a combination of tradition and creativity. Each bite will take you on a journey full of nostalgia and joy. Don't forget to share this delicacy with your loved ones, because true happiness comes from savoring moments together!