Cheese pie is more than just a dessert; it is a sweet memory of childhood, a recipe passed down from generation to generation, filled with love and tradition. My grandmother prepared this pie with a passion and attention to detail that turned every slice into a true delicacy. Whether you prefer it sweet or in a fasting version, cheese pie remains a versatile and delicious dish, perfect for any occasion.
Total preparation time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 1 cup oil (approximately 200 ml)
- 1.5 cups milk (or water)
- 1/2 kg flour (or as needed, depending on the desired consistency)
- 1 pinch of baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 50 g soft butter (for greasing the sheets)
For the filling:
- 1 kg sweet cheese (fresh)
- Sugar (to taste, approximately 150 g)
- 8 eggs
- Raisins (soaked in brandy, for extra flavor)
- Flavors: vanilla or lemon zest (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the dough
1. In a large bowl, combine the oil, milk, and salt. Mix well to ensure the salt dissolves completely.
2. Add the flour and baking powder, mixing continuously until you obtain a dough that does not stick to your hands. Don’t worry if the dough seems a bit crumbly at first; after 2-3 minutes of kneading on the work surface, it will come together.
3. If the dough is still too dry, you can add a few drops of milk to adjust its consistency.
4. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Cover them with a damp towel and let them chill for about 1 hour (this will make the sheets easier to roll out and allow the butter to integrate better).
Step 2: Preparing the filling
1. In a large bowl, mix the sweet cheese with the sugar (adjusting the amount to your taste), eggs, and the brandy-soaked raisins. If desired, you can also add flavors like vanilla or lemon zest for a more intense taste.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are completely combined.
Step 3: Assembling the pie
1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first sheet of dough. Make sure it is thin enough to allow the filling to bake well, but sturdy enough to hold it.
3. Transfer the sheet to a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring it reaches the edges as well.
4. Pour the cheese filling over the first sheet, spreading it evenly.
5. Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it on top of the filling. Use a fork to poke it in several places so that steam can escape during baking.
Step 4: Baking
1. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy on the surface.
2. When ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting. It is very tempting to serve it immediately, but letting it cool will allow it to set better.
Serving
Cheese pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can enjoy it with a fragrant coffee or a glass of warm milk for an unforgettable experience. A spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also add a refreshing touch.
Practical tips
- Flour: Use a quality flour, ideally for pastries, to achieve a slightly fluffy texture.
- Cheese: Choose a sweet, fresh cheese that is well-drained. You can combine cottage cheese with a creamier cheese for a richer filling.
- Raisins: If you don't have brandy on hand, you can use rum or simply warm water to hydrate them.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of fillings, such as goat cheese or salty cheese, for a savory version. You can add herbs to give it an even more interesting flavor.
Nutritional benefits
Cheese pie is a rich source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, while the carbohydrates from the flour provide energy. However, it is important to consume it in moderation, considering the calorie content. A serving of cheese pie can have approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
2. How can I store the pie? You can keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegan cheese and replacing the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water.
I conclude with a special thought: preparing cheese pie is an activity that brings joy and warmth to the soul. Each slice is a memory of love and tradition, perfect to be shared with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, turn on your favorite music, and enjoy every moment of this culinary journey!
Total preparation time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 1 cup oil (approximately 200 ml)
- 1.5 cups milk (or water)
- 1/2 kg flour (or as needed, depending on the desired consistency)
- 1 pinch of baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 50 g soft butter (for greasing the sheets)
For the filling:
- 1 kg sweet cheese (fresh)
- Sugar (to taste, approximately 150 g)
- 8 eggs
- Raisins (soaked in brandy, for extra flavor)
- Flavors: vanilla or lemon zest (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the dough
1. In a large bowl, combine the oil, milk, and salt. Mix well to ensure the salt dissolves completely.
2. Add the flour and baking powder, mixing continuously until you obtain a dough that does not stick to your hands. Don’t worry if the dough seems a bit crumbly at first; after 2-3 minutes of kneading on the work surface, it will come together.
3. If the dough is still too dry, you can add a few drops of milk to adjust its consistency.
4. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Cover them with a damp towel and let them chill for about 1 hour (this will make the sheets easier to roll out and allow the butter to integrate better).
Step 2: Preparing the filling
1. In a large bowl, mix the sweet cheese with the sugar (adjusting the amount to your taste), eggs, and the brandy-soaked raisins. If desired, you can also add flavors like vanilla or lemon zest for a more intense taste.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are completely combined.
Step 3: Assembling the pie
1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first sheet of dough. Make sure it is thin enough to allow the filling to bake well, but sturdy enough to hold it.
3. Transfer the sheet to a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring it reaches the edges as well.
4. Pour the cheese filling over the first sheet, spreading it evenly.
5. Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it on top of the filling. Use a fork to poke it in several places so that steam can escape during baking.
Step 4: Baking
1. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy on the surface.
2. When ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting. It is very tempting to serve it immediately, but letting it cool will allow it to set better.
Serving
Cheese pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can enjoy it with a fragrant coffee or a glass of warm milk for an unforgettable experience. A spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also add a refreshing touch.
Practical tips
- Flour: Use a quality flour, ideally for pastries, to achieve a slightly fluffy texture.
- Cheese: Choose a sweet, fresh cheese that is well-drained. You can combine cottage cheese with a creamier cheese for a richer filling.
- Raisins: If you don't have brandy on hand, you can use rum or simply warm water to hydrate them.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of fillings, such as goat cheese or salty cheese, for a savory version. You can add herbs to give it an even more interesting flavor.
Nutritional benefits
Cheese pie is a rich source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, while the carbohydrates from the flour provide energy. However, it is important to consume it in moderation, considering the calorie content. A serving of cheese pie can have approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
2. How can I store the pie? You can keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegan cheese and replacing the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water.
I conclude with a special thought: preparing cheese pie is an activity that brings joy and warmth to the soul. Each slice is a memory of love and tradition, perfect to be shared with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, turn on your favorite music, and enjoy every moment of this culinary journey!