Cheese pie

Cottage Cheese Pie – A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Cottage cheese pie is a classic dessert, cherished in many cultures, that brings together simple ingredients to create a delicacy that combines flavor and comfort. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized according to your preferences. So, let's get started!

Ingredients for the dough:
- 400 g flour
- 250 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 100 ml cold water

Ingredients for the filling:
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 3 eggs
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons semolina
- 5 tablespoons milk
- 50 g raisins (optional, but recommended)
- 50 g sour cream
- 1 essence of rum (to taste)
- Grated zest of one lemon
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Necessary utensils:
- A large mixing bowl
- A rolling pin
- A baking tray (recommended 23x30 cm)
- Plastic wrap
- Knife or spatula for cutting

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is essential to avoid lumps and to achieve a smooth and fine dough.

2. Add the salt and cubed butter. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. It’s a relaxing moment, and the smell of butter will fill your kitchen!

3. Gradually add water while mixing continuously. Knead the dough until it becomes homogeneous and elastic. If you feel the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

4. Once you have a fine dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step will help solidify the butter and make the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. While the dough is chilling, you can prepare the filling. In another bowl, add the cottage cheese and break it up gently with a fork. This will give a creamy texture to your pie.

2. Add the eggs, sugar, semolina, milk, and sour cream. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. The semolina will help absorb the moisture from the cheese, thus giving stability to the filling.

3. Finally, add the raisins, rum essence, and grated lemon zest. These ingredients will provide a special taste and an inviting aroma to your pie.

Step 3: Assembling the pie

1. After the dough has chilled, take it out and divide it into two equal parts. Roll out each part on a floured surface, making sure it is slightly smaller than your baking tray.

2. Grease the tray with butter to prevent the pie from sticking. Place the first sheet of dough in the tray, ensuring to cover the edges well.

3. Pour the cheese mixture evenly over the first sheet of dough.

4. Cover with the second sheet of dough and seal the edges to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. You can use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the edges.

5. With a knife, gently cut the pie into portions before placing it in the oven. This step will allow steam to escape during baking and help achieve a crispy crust.

Step 4: Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. A medium temperature is ideal for the pie to bake evenly and become golden.

2. Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes or until it is nicely browned on top. You will smell the delicious aroma filling the entire kitchen!

3. Once the pie is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Before serving, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant and appetizing appearance.

Serving and combinations

Cottage cheese pie can be served warm or at room temperature, and you can offer a scoop of sour cream or a vanilla sauce for an extra flavor. Additionally, a fragrant tea or a glass of fresh milk perfectly complements this dessert.

Tips and variation suggestions

- If you want to add a chocolate note, you can replace some of the raisins with dark chocolate chips.
- For a more pronounced flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the filling.
- The dough can also be made with oil instead of butter for a lighter option.

Nutritional benefits

Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, while eggs provide essential nutrients such as vitamin D and B vitamins. Semolina adds complex carbohydrates, thus providing long-lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with feta or ricotta cheese for a different texture.

2. How can I store the pie?
It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

3. Can I freeze the pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze it either before baking or after it has completely cooled. Make sure it is well wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

So, embark on the cooking adventure and enjoy the cottage cheese pie – a dessert that will bring smiles and unforgettable memories with every slice! Enjoy!