Cheese pie

Cheese Pie Recipe - A Classic Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings

Cheese pie is a dessert that reminds us of childhood, family meals, and special moments spent with loved ones. This recipe is simple, but the result is truly spectacular - a delicious dish with fine layers of crispy dough and a creamy, sweet filling that will delight all the senses.

Ingredients

For the pie:
- 1 package of pie sheets (10 sheets)
- 1 kg cheese (you can use cottage cheese or feta cheese, depending on your preference)
- 10 eggs
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon margarine or butter (for greasing the pan)
- 2 teaspoons of rum essence
- 1 tablespoon oil (for drizzling)

For the syrup:
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 150 ml water

Preparation with Time and Patience

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by taking the cheese out of the refrigerator to reach room temperature. This will make the mixture more homogeneous. In a large bowl, add the cheese and beat it together with the eggs using a mixer or whisk until you get a smooth paste. Add the rum essences and 2 tablespoons of the 5 tablespoons of sugar to enhance the flavors.

2. Preparing the pan: Grease a pan with margarine or melted butter so that the pie does not stick. A medium-sized pan (30x40 cm) is ideal for this recipe.

3. Assembling the pie: Place 2 sheets of pie dough in the pan, allowing the edges to hang over slightly so you can close the pie at the end. Cover the sheets with a generous layer of cheese filling, then sprinkle a tablespoon of sugar. Continue adding layers of dough and filling, repeating this process until you have used all 10 sheets. You should have 4 layers of filling and 5 rows of dough.

4. Finalizing the pie: Drizzle a tablespoon of oil on top and brush the last sheet well with butter or oil to achieve a golden and crispy crust. Sprinkle a tablespoon of sugar on top for added sweetness and a caramelized crust. Using a sharp knife, cut the pie into portions, making sure to cut the edges that hang over the pan.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pan in the oven and bake the pie for 40-45 minutes until it becomes golden and crispy on the surface. Delicious aromas will fill your kitchen!

6. Preparing the syrup: In the last 10 minutes of baking, you can prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, add 150 ml of water, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and the grated lemon zest. Simmer over low heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Let the syrup boil for 5 minutes, then remove it from the heat.

7. Finalizing the pie: Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the warm syrup over the pie, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Let it cool slightly before cutting and serving.

Practical Tips

- Choosing cheese: Cottage cheese is a popular choice due to its creamy texture, but you can experiment with feta cheese for a saltier and contrasting taste.
- Pie sheets: If using frozen pie sheets, ensure they are completely thawed before use to avoid tearing.
- Delicious variations: You can add raisins or chopped nuts to the cheese filling for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Additionally, a splash of vanilla can further enrich the taste.
- Serving: Cheese pie is delicious warm but also cold. You can serve it alongside a scoop of yogurt or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy and refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

Cheese pie is a good source of protein due to the eggs and cheese, providing essential calcium for bone health. It can be enjoyed in moderation, considering the sugar content. A serving may contain approximately 250 calories, but the variation depends on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use soy cheese?
Yes, you can use soy cheese for a vegan version of this dessert. Make sure to adjust the amount of sugar, as soy cheese may be less sweet.

2. How can I store the pie?
Cheese pie keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in a closed container. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

3. Is it possible to freeze the pie?
Yes, the pie can be frozen. Ensure it is well covered to avoid freezer burn. Freeze before baking, and when you're ready to prepare it, let it thaw completely before baking.

Cheese pie is more than just a simple dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings us together. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, the result will always be delicious. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every moment of this delightful process!