Cheese Strudel

Cheese and Raisin Strudel: A Classic and Irresistible Delight

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Number of Servings: 8

Cheese strudel is a traditional recipe, rich in flavor and history. This delicious dessert has been prepared for generations, often associated with festive moments and family gatherings. With a crispy crust, a rich cheese filling, and a hint of sweetness from the raisins, this strudel quickly becomes a favorite at holiday tables. Additionally, it is extremely versatile – you can enjoy it warm with a morning coffee or cold as a dessert at the end of a delightful dinner.

Necessary Ingredients:

- 450 g puff pastry (thawed)
- 350 g cottage cheese (you can use fresh cottage cheese, preferably high-fat for a creamy texture)
- 1 egg (for the filling, at room temperature)
- 100 g sugar (preferably fine sugar for even dissolution)
- 50 g raisins (black or golden, depending on preference)
- 1 egg (for brushing, preferably organic or free-range for a richer color)

Step by Step: Preparing the Cheese Strudel

1. Thawing the Pastry:
Start by letting the puff pastry thaw overnight in the refrigerator. This slow process will ensure a perfect, crispy texture that is easy to handle. Do not rush the thawing process, as the pastry can become sticky and hard to work with.

2. Preparing the Filling:
In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the sugar and raisins. It is important to use quality cheese, as this will influence the final taste of the strudel. Add the beaten egg and mix well until you achieve a homogeneous and creamy composition. Taste the filling and adjust the sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

3. Preparing the Baking Tray:
Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray with parchment paper, so the strudel does not stick during baking.

4. Assembling the Strudel:
On a clean surface, unfold the puff pastry. Place the cheese filling in the center, on one-third of the pastry, leaving about 5 cm edges uncovered. Fold the sides of the pastry over the filling, then fold one-third of the pastry lengthwise, brushing with a little egg to seal, and cover with the other third of the pastry. Now, the strudel should have a nice and tidy shape.

5. Scoring and Brushing:
Use a sharp knife to make small slits in the pastry. This step will not only add an aesthetic effect but will also allow steam to escape during baking, preventing excessive puffing. Brush the strudel with beaten egg for a golden and shiny finish.

6. Baking:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the strudel bake for 30-40 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy. Keep an eye on the oven, as every appliance can bake differently. When ready, remove the strudel and let it cool slightly.

7. Serving:
The strudel can be served warm, straight from the oven, or allowed to cool and then dusted with vanilla sugar before serving. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea.

Practical Tips:

- Variations of the Filling: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as ricotta or mascarpone, or add flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, or lemon zest for a more complex taste.
- Raisins: If you don’t like raisins, you can replace them with pieces of apple or dried apricots for a fresh fruit note.
- Pastry: If you have time, you can make the puff pastry from scratch, but the store-bought version is a quick and efficient solution.

Nutritional Information:
A serving of cheese strudel (approximately 100 g) contains about 250 calories, providing a considerable amount of protein from the cheese and carbohydrates from the pastry. It is a good choice for a sweet snack, but moderate consumption is recommended due to the sugar and fat content.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use pie dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, you can use pie dough, but the texture and taste will be different. Puff pastry will provide a crispier crust.

2. Can I prepare the strudel in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a few hours ahead and bake it just before serving.

3. What drinks pair best with the strudel?
A cup of fruit tea or a flavored coffee are excellent choices to complement the sweetness of the strudel.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Whether it's a gathering with friends or a family party, cheese and raisin strudel will surely impress everyone. Enjoy your meal!