Cheese pie

Fragrant cheesecake with lemon

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

On a sunny day, when the sun gently streams into the kitchen, it's the perfect moment to indulge in a fragrant cheesecake with lemon. This recipe, inspired by culinary traditions, brings a touch of nostalgia and joy, reminding us of the small pleasures of childhood. It is an easy-to-make cake with a tender crust and a smooth filling, perfect for enjoying alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients needed

For the crust:
- 400 g flour
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 200 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 150 ml sour cream (ideally 30% fat)
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- a pinch of salt
- grated zest from 1 lemon (use only the yellow part for an intense flavor)

For the filling:
- 600 g cheese (preferably cottage cheese or ricotta)
- 4 egg whites
- 150 g powdered sugar
- juice from 1/2 lemon
- 1-2 tablespoons semolina (depending on the moisture of the cheese)

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the crust:
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. Add salt, baking powder, and diced butter. Use your fingers to rub the mixture until the butter is fully incorporated and you achieve a crumbly texture. Then, add the egg yolks, sour cream, and powdered sugar. Knead the dough until it becomes homogeneous, but do not overwork it to avoid elasticity.

Practical tips: It's important to use quality butter, as this will influence the texture and flavor of the crust. If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar.

2. Chilling the dough:
Once you have the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential to achieve a tender and easy-to-work dough.

3. Preparing the filling:
Meanwhile, take care of the filling. In a bowl, mix the cheese with the grated lemon zest, lemon juice, and semolina. Make sure the cheese is well-drained to avoid a watery filling. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until you achieve a firm meringue. Gently fold the meringue into the cheese mixture, using wide movements to maintain the air.

4. Assembling the cake:
Remove the dough from the fridge and divide it into two equal parts. Roll out the first part on a floured surface, ensuring it is large enough to cover the bottom of the baking tray. Place the dough sheet in the tray lined with parchment paper. Pour the cheese filling and level it with a spatula. Roll out the second dough sheet and place it over the filling. Prick the dough in several places with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the cake in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until golden. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar.

Serving suggestions
This cake is served warm or at room temperature, alongside a cup of green tea or a creamy cappuccino. Add a touch of elegance by placing a few slices of fresh lemon on the plate.

Variations and tricks
You can experiment with alternative fillings, such as goat cheese or adding raisins for a sweet note. You can also replace lemon with orange or lime to change the flavor profile.

Nutritional benefits
This cake contains protein from cheese, healthy fats from butter and sour cream, and a dose of vitamin C from lemon, making it a healthier choice compared to other sugary and trans-fat-laden desserts.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use soy cheese for a vegan version?
Yes, you can replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative, but make sure to choose one with a similar texture.

- What should I do if the filling is too watery?
If the cheese is very wet, add more semolina to help absorb the excess moisture.

- How do I keep the cake fresh?
It keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or can be frozen for later use.

Enjoy this fragrant cheesecake with lemon, which is not just a delicious dessert but also a piece of your culinary memories. Whether you savor it alone or with loved ones, each bite will bring a smile to your face. Enjoy your meal!