Cheese Pie

Cheese Pie - A Delicious Indulgence

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

Cheese pie is a classic dessert, cherished by many generations and loved for its delicate flavor and fluffy texture. This simple and accessible recipe will bring a smile to your face and turn any meal into a feast. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, every bite will be a delight. Let's get started!

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g wheat flour (choose a quality flour for a fluffy dough)
- 300 ml warm water
- 50 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 50 g sugar (for a sweet note)
- 10 g fresh yeast or 5 g dry yeast

For the filling:
- 800 g cottage cheese (preferably slightly salty for a pleasant contrast)
- 4 eggs (make sure they are fresh for better taste)
- 1 vanilla essence (for a sweet and comforting aroma)
- 200 g sugar (adjust to personal preference)
- Grated lemon zest (for an extra touch of flavor and freshness)

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Dough:
Start by activating the yeast. In a bowl, mix the yeast with the sugar and 150 ml of warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This step is essential to ensure the dough rises beautifully.
Meanwhile, in another bowl, sift the flour and make a well in the center. Add the oil, the yeast mixture, and the remaining water. Knead the dough well for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This is when the intensity of physical work will pay off!

2. Letting the Dough Rise:
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until its volume doubles. This proofing process is crucial for the fluffy texture of the pie.

3. Preparing the Filling:
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Grate the cottage cheese or, if you prefer, mash it with a fork. Add the eggs, sugar, vanilla essence, and lemon zest. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. If the filling seems too soft, feel free to add 2 tablespoons of semolina to give it a more defined consistency.

4. Assembling the Pie:
Preheat the oven to 180 °C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first half on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet. Place the sheet in the tray and pour the cheese filling evenly over it. Roll out the other half of the dough and cover the filling.

5. Baking:
Lightly beat an egg and brush the surface of the pie for a golden and appetizing crust. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes or until it turns golden and is well baked.

6. Serving:
Let the pie cool slightly before cutting it. Serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a fruit sauce or a dollop of sour cream, for a perfect culinary experience.

Practical Tips

- Choose the cheese carefully: A slightly salty cottage cheese will balance the sweetness of the sugar and add a more complex flavor to the pie.
- Enrich the filling: You can add raisins or pieces of candied fruit to the filling for an extra texture and flavor.
- Storage: The pie can be kept well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of cheese pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good source of protein due to the eggs and cheese, while also providing carbohydrates from the flour and sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use ricotta cheese?
Yes, ricotta cheese can be an excellent alternative, offering a creamy texture and a sweeter taste.

- How can I make the pie less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use saltier cheese to balance the taste.

- Can the pie be frozen?
Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.

Delicious Combinations

Cheese pie pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or coffee. Additionally, a berry sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside would make this dessert a true indulgence.

Personal Note

This cheese pie reminds me of my childhood when my grandmother would make it every Sunday. The smell of baked cheese and the aroma of vanilla would fill my home and heart with joy. I encourage you to bring beautiful memories into the kitchen, adding a touch of your personal story to each recipe.

This cheese pie is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a quick and delicious dessert. Prepare it, enjoy it, and share it with your loved ones!