Cheese pies

Cheese pies: a classic and beloved recipe around the world, perfect for any time of the day. These cheese-filled delights can be enjoyed both in savory and sweet versions, offering a culinary indulgence that will delight your taste buds. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve the fluffiest and most delicious cheese pies.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 1 egg
- 100 g sour cream
- 100 ml water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 350 g flour

For the filling:
- 500 g cottage cheese (preferably fresh)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional, if the cheese is too dry)
- Sugar and rum essence (for the sweet version)
- Salt and fresh dill (for the savory version)

Additionally:
- 60 g butter (for greasing the dough)
- 100 g sour cream (for greasing the pies)

A brief history

Cheese pies have a long history and are appreciated in many culinary cultures. They have evolved over time, with each region contributing its own ingredients and techniques. From pies filled with cottage cheese to those with feta or ricotta, the varieties are countless. This recipe combines tradition with innovation, offering an authentic culinary experience.

Preparation techniques

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, beat the egg with a fork. Add the sour cream, water, and salt, mixing well. Start incorporating the flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or by hand until you achieve a homogeneous dough. It should be slightly sticky but not overly so. If it is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

Useful tips:
- Use type 000 or 550 flour for a finer dough.
- If you have a dough mixer with a hook, it can make the work easier.

Step 2: Resting the dough
After obtaining the dough, let it rest on the table for 10-15 minutes. This will help the gluten develop, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 3: Dividing and rolling out the dough
Divide the dough into three equal parts. Sprinkle flour on the work surface and take the first piece. Roll it out into a thin sheet, about 2-3 mm thick, so that it no longer sticks to the table. Repeat this process for the other two pieces.

Step 4: Preparing the rolls
Generously grease each sheet with butter. Then, tightly roll each sheet to form a roll. Place the rolls on a platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step will help achieve a nicer and airier texture.

Step 5: Preparing the filling
In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the egg. If the cheese is too dry, you can add the two tablespoons of sour cream. Divide the mixture into two: in the first part add salt and chopped fresh dill, while in the other part add sugar and rum essence for the sweet version.

Step 6: Forming the pies
Remove the rolls from the refrigerator and cut them into slices about 2-3 fingers wide. Each piece is lightly rolled out with a rolling pin. Place a tablespoon of the chosen filling in the center, then gather the edges to form a little bundle. Make sure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

Step 7: Baking the pies
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pies in a baking tray lined with parchment paper, with the edges facing down. Generously grease them with sour cream. Bake for 20-25 minutes at medium to high heat, until they turn golden. Once browned, reduce the oven temperature to low and bake for another 10-15 minutes for even cooking.

Serving suggestions and variations

Cheese pies can be served warm or at room temperature. Here are some suggestions to turn them into a true feast:

1. For the savory version: Serve the pies with a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
2. For the sweet version: You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top of the warm pies or serve them with a vanilla sauce or vanilla ice cream for a refined dessert.
3. Add raisins: In the sweet filling, you can also add some raisins for an extra texture and flavor.

Nutritional benefits

These cheese pies are a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese and egg. They can also provide a dose of calcium essential for bone health. Depending on the filling, you can achieve a dessert that satisfies sweet cravings, as well as a nourishing and satisfying snack.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Of course! You can experiment with feta, ricotta, or even goat cheese to achieve different flavors.

2. How can I store the pies?
If you don't consume them immediately, you can store the pies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

3. Can I freeze the pies?
Yes, the pies can be frozen before baking. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer. Once frozen, you can transfer them to an airtight container. When you want to consume them, let them thaw at room temperature and bake them according to the instructions.

Conclusion

Cheese pies are an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a brunch with friends or a family dinner. With this simple and delicious recipe, you will bring a touch of joy to your kitchen. Don't forget to let your creativity run wild and experiment with various fillings! Enjoy!