Cheese pie with cherries and apricots

Cheese, sour cherry, and apricot pie - a delicacy for the soul

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of a freshly baked pie? This cheese, sour cherry, and apricot pie is not just a dessert, but a true explosion of flavors and textures, reminiscent of family moments spent around the table. A wonderful combination of the sweetness of apricots and the tartness of sour cherries, wrapped in delicate pie crust, makes it perfect as both a dessert and a snack.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

- 1 package of pie crust
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 4 eggs
- 7 tablespoons of sugar or sweetener (to taste)
- 300 ml yogurt
- 300 ml sour cream
- 4 packets of vanilla sugar
- 500 g sour cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 500 g apricots
- Oil for greasing

Preparing the pie

1. Preparing the ingredients

Start by allowing the pie crust to thaw completely. This step is essential for achieving delicate and easy-to-handle sheets. If using fresh sour cherries, pit them and set aside. If using frozen sour cherries, make sure to let them thaw and drain excess water. For the apricots, pit them and cut them into small cubes. Their color and sweetness will add charm to your pie.

2. Preparing the filling

In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with 5 tablespoons of sugar and 2 packets of vanilla sugar. Add the 4 eggs, incorporating them well into the mixture. Use a spatula or whisk to ensure the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Once you have a uniform consistency, add the sour cherries and diced apricots. Stir gently with a spoon, being careful not to crush the fruit.

3. Assembling the pie

Take a sheet of pie crust and evenly brush it with oil using a kitchen brush. Layer a second sheet on top, also greasing it with oil. This step will ensure a crispy and golden texture. On half of the sheet's surface, place 5 tablespoons of the cheese and fruit filling, leaving a free edge. Then, cover the filling with the other half of the sheet, folding it like an origami.

4. Placing in the tray

Place the assembled pie in a greased tray. If you have a round tray, you can form spirals with the sheets for a more artistic look. Continue assembling the pie with the remaining sheets, placing them side by side to fill the entire tray.

5. Baking the pie

Brush the top of the pie with oil and place it in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 30-40 minutes, or until golden and crispy. During this time, the delicious aroma will fill your kitchen, making you wonder if you can resist waiting for it to cool.

6. Preparing the yogurt sauce

Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix the yogurt with the sour cream, the remaining 2 eggs, and 2 packets of vanilla sugar. This sauce will provide a creamy and refreshing contrast to your pie.

7. Finalizing the baking

After the pie is golden, remove it from the oven and pierce it all over with a fork. Pour the yogurt and sour cream mixture on top and return it to the oven for another 30-40 minutes, until the sauce sets and the pie becomes golden again.

8. Serving

Once the pie has cooled, you can slice it and dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look. It can be served warm or cold, and is delicious alongside a scoop of ice cream or a cup of aromatic tea. This pie is perfect for enjoying at a gathering with friends or simply as a personal treat.

Practical tips

- Be creative with fruits: You can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as apples, peaches, or even raspberries. Each variation will bring a different taste and a palette of colors.
- Check the consistency of the cheese: Make sure the cottage cheese is well-drained to avoid a soggy filling. If necessary, you can use denser cottage cheese or add a bit of starch to bind the mixture.
- Keep the pie fresh: If you have leftover pie, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for 2-3 days but is best enjoyed on the first day.

Nutritional benefits

This pie is an excellent source of protein from the cottage cheese and eggs, while the fruits add vitamins and antioxidants. With a moderate amount of sugar, you can adjust the recipe to make it even healthier by using natural sweeteners.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Of course, store-bought pie crust is a quick and convenient solution. Just ensure you let them thaw completely for easy handling.

How can I prevent the pie from cracking?
Make sure to use enough sheets and grease them well with oil, which will help keep them moist and delicate.

Can the pie be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent ice formation on the surface. When you're ready to bake it, let it thaw completely and then bake according to the instructions.

Conclusion

This cheese, sour cherry, and apricot pie is an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The crispy texture of the sheets and the creamy, fruit-filled filling will make you return to this recipe every time. Enjoy cooking and savoring!