Cherry and cottage cheese tart

Cherry and Cottage Cheese Tart: A Refreshing Delight

Welcome to a new episode of the "I Love Tarts" series! Today, I will take you on a flavorful culinary journey with a recipe for cherry and cottage cheese tart. This tart, with its fine texture and aromatic filling, is perfect for hot summer days but can also be enjoyed at the end of a festive meal. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner eager to venture into the kitchen, this simple recipe will delight you and your loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

A Brief History of Tarts

The term tart brings to mind long-standing culinary traditions, and the combination of cheese and fruit is classic in many cultures. The cherry and cottage cheese tart can be seen as a reinterpretation of traditional desserts, where the sweetness of cherries perfectly contrasts with the cream cheese. This recipe pays tribute to the beauty of simplicity, highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 300 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 100 g butter at room temperature
- 150 g sugar
- 1 egg

For the filling:
- 75 g sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 vanilla pod (or vanilla extract)
- Zest of one lemon
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- Pitted cherries (about 300-400 g, depending on preference)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). It's essential to have the oven ready for even baking.

2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients will form the base of the dough.

3. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color. This is an important trick to achieve a light texture.

4. Add the egg to the butter and sugar mixture and continue mixing until fully incorporated.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the result becomes a sandy composition. Don't worry if it's not perfectly homogeneous; it's normal.

Step 2: Forming the Tart Base

1. Grease a round 26 cm diameter baking dish with butter. This step will prevent sticking and help with easy removal after baking.

2. Take 2/3 of the dough mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the dish. Use your palm or the bottom of a glass to flatten the dough. Raise the dough slightly along the edges of the dish to form a border.

3. Place half of the cherries on top of the dough base. Feel free to use as many cherries as you like; they will add a note of freshness and pleasant acidity.

Step 3: Preparing the Cream Cheese

1. In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest. Use a mixer to obtain a smooth and creamy mixture.

2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is crucial for ensuring a fine texture.

3. Finally, incorporate the semolina, which will help stabilize the filling.

Step 4: Assembling and Baking

1. Pour the cream cheese over the cherries in the dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

2. Sprinkle the remaining cherries on top of the cream, then crumble the remaining dough and sprinkle it evenly over the tart. This crumbly layer will add a pleasant crunchy texture.

3. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the top crust becomes golden and crispy.

4. After removing the tart from the oven, let it cool completely at room temperature before slicing. This step is important as it allows the flavors to develop.

Serving and Suggestions

The cherry and cottage cheese tart is best served cold, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a vanilla sauce, which will perfectly complement the fruity flavors. Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgence. This is a versatile recipe that can be customized: try adding a bit of cinnamon to the filling or replacing the cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or peaches.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This tart contains approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the serving size and the amount of sugar used. Cottage cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, while cherries are rich in antioxidants, making them a healthy choice for desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen cherries? Yes, frozen cherries are an excellent choice. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

- How can I store the tart? Keep the tart in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.

- Can it be made gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free option, such as almond flour or a gluten-free blend.

Final Note

The cherry and cottage cheese tart is not just a delicious dessert but also a way to bring joy and comfort into everyday life. I hope this recipe has inspired you to put on your apron and create something special in the kitchen. With each slice, you will feel the love and passion you put into the preparation. So, don't wait any longer! Gather the ingredients and get ready to indulge in a delicious tart that will impress anyone who wants a slice. Enjoy!