Cottage cheese cake

Cottage Cheese Cake - A Sweet and Creamy Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Let yourself be carried away by the enticing aroma of a cottage cheese cake, which perfectly combines the fluffy texture of the layers with the rich and creamy filling. This recipe, with deep roots in our culinary traditions, is sure to become a family favorite.

Necessary ingredients

*For the layers:*
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 7 tablespoons of oil (sunflower oil is ideal for a neutral flavor)
- 7 tablespoons of milk (you can use whole milk for a richer texture)
- 1 egg (preferably at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 400 g of flour (type 000 for a fine texture)

*For the filling:*
- 500 g of cottage cheese (make sure it is fresh for a delicious taste)
- Sugar (to taste, usually between 100-150 g)
- 150 g of raisins (soaked in warm water to make them fluffier)
- 2 eggs (one for the filling and one to brush the layer)
- Zest of one lemon (for a fresh and aromatic flavor)
- Vanilla essence (a drop will work wonders)
- 2 tablespoons of semolina

*Decoration:*
- Powdered sugar (to add a touch of elegance)

Preparation of the layers

1. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the 7 tablespoons of sugar with the egg. Use a whisk or mixer to achieve a smooth mixture. Add the oil, mixing as if you were making mayonnaise, to obtain a fine emulsion.

2. Adding the milk: Gradually incorporate the milk while continuing to mix.

3. Flour and baking powder: Sift the flour together with the baking powder and incorporate them into the liquid mixture. Mix until you obtain a dough that is easy to shape. If the dough is too stiff, add a little milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.

4. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. These will form the two layers of the cake.

5. Baking the layers: Roll out the first layer in a greased baking tray. Prick it with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming. Sprinkle a little semolina on the surface to absorb moisture from the filling.

Preparation of the filling

1. Mashing the cottage cheese: In another bowl, mash the cottage cheese with the sugar until it becomes a smooth paste. Add the raisins (which have been soaked in warm water and drained), lemon zest, vanilla essence, and semolina. These ingredients will add texture and flavor to the filling.

2. Incorporating the egg whites: Beat the 2 egg whites until stiff peaks form, then carefully fold them into the cottage cheese mixture, mixing with a spatula to avoid losing air from the egg whites.

3. Finalizing the filling: Add one egg yolk and mix well.

Assembling the cake

1. Filling the layer: Pour the cottage cheese filling over the first layer, spreading it evenly.

2. Adding the second layer: Roll out the second layer of dough, prick it again with a fork, and carefully place it on top of the filling. Brush the surface with the remaining egg yolk for a golden and shiny color.

3. Baking: Place the tray in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and firm to the touch.

4. Cooling and decorating: Once the cake has completely cooled, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Chef's tip

To add a special touch, try replacing part of the cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese for a creamier filling. You can also add some chopped nuts for an extra crunch.

Nutritional benefits

The cottage cheese cake is a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese and eggs, while the raisins add extra fiber and antioxidants. The flour provides necessary carbohydrates for energy, making this cake a satisfying dessert after a meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with cream cheese or mascarpone for a different texture.

2. How do I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

3. What drink pairs well with this cake?
A warm herbal tea or a cappuccino pairs perfectly with the sweetness of this cake.

Possible variations

If you want to add a touch of exoticism, you can add a few drops of almond essence or even a bit of cinnamon to the cottage cheese filling. Additionally, replacing the raisins with pieces of dried apricots or candied cherries can bring a unique flavor.

The cottage cheese cake is more than just a dessert; it is a way to bring family and friends together around the table, savoring a piece of our traditions. Try this recipe and turn every bite into a sweet memory!