Cheese pie

Cheese Pie - A classic, delicious, and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Who doesn’t love a slice of warm, steaming cheese pie with a golden crust and creamy filling? This cheese pie recipe is a true culinary treasure, perfect for any occasion - from a simple weekend dessert to a special event. It’s quick, easy, and has a taste that will delight your taste buds.

The history of cheese pie dates back to ancient times, but it has always been a symbol of hospitality and comfort. This recipe, adapted over the decades, has become a favorite choice in many kitchens, cherished by generations.

Necessary ingredients:
- 400-500 g feta cheese (or cottage cheese, depending on preferences)
- 400 g puff pastry (preferably store-bought to save time, but you can also opt for a homemade version)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 100-150 g sugar (to taste)
- 100 g raisins (you can also use other dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, for a unique touch)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- oil for greasing the dish
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing on top)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. If you have feta cheese, make sure to crumble it well or grate it to achieve a fine texture.

2. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, add the grated cheese, the 4 eggs, vanilla sugar, sugar, raisins, and vanilla essence. Mix all the ingredients well with a spatula or whisk, ensuring everything is well combined. If you want a fluffier filling, you can beat the eggs separately before adding them to the mix.

3. Preparing the pastry: Divide the puff pastry into two equal parts. Roll out each part with a rolling pin to create sheets that fit the size of your round baking dish. Make sure the sheets are slightly larger than the dish to cover the edges.

4. Assembling the pie: Grease the dish with a little oil to prevent sticking. Place the first sheet of pastry in the dish, making sure it fits perfectly with the edges. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the surface. Then, cover the filling with the second sheet of pastry. To ensure even baking and allow steam to escape, use a fork to poke the pastry here and there.

5. Brushing the pie: Beat an egg yolk and brush it over the pie for a beautifully golden and shiny crust.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pie in the oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy.

7. Cooling and serving: Once the pie is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting. You can serve the pie warm or at room temperature, plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. It’s delicious and pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or a glass of milk.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or ricotta, for varied flavors.
- If you want a healthier version, you can add some pieces of fresh fruit, such as grated apples or pears, to the filling.
- Make sure to use a quality baking dish to prevent the pastry from sticking.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use homemade pastry? Yes, homemade pastry can add a personal touch, but store-bought puff pastry is quicker.
- How can I store the pie? You can keep it in the fridge for a few days, covered with plastic wrap, to maintain its freshness.
- Is this pie suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegan alternatives for cheese and eggs, such as tofu and flaxseeds.

Nutrition and calories:
This cheese pie contains approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Feta cheese is a rich source of calcium and protein, while eggs provide an additional supply of essential nutrients.

Ideal pairings:
This dessert pairs perfectly with fruit tea or a creamy cappuccino, but you can also experiment with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious contrast.

So, enjoy this simple yet uniquely flavored cheese pie, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your loved ones! Cooking is an art, and each recipe is a story waiting to be told. Enjoy your meal!