Cottage cheese pie with raisins

Cottage cheese pie with raisins is a classic dessert, loved by all who enjoy the combination of sweet and delicate flavors. This simple and quick recipe combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the sweetness of raisins, in an easy-to-make pie that can be enjoyed both warm and cold. What makes this pie stand out is its airy and fine layer, perfect for accompanying a cup of tea or coffee.

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

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 large eggs
- 200 g flour
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 100 g sunflower oil
- 50 g semolina
- 100 ml milk
- 50 g raisins
- Grated zest of one lemon
- A pinch of baking soda
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Recipe history:

Cottage cheese pies are traditional preparations in many cultures, with deep roots in culinary history. These desserts are often associated with festive moments and family gatherings, made with love and patience. The combination of cottage cheese and raisins adds not only a delicious taste but also an unmistakable aroma that evokes childhood memories and moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the base mixture:
- Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is important that the bowls are clean and free of grease to achieve a well-aerated foam.
- In a bowl, whisk the yolks with the oil, as for mayonnaise. This will help achieve a fine and homogeneous mixture.
- Dissolve a pinch of baking soda in vinegar or lemon juice, then add it to the yolk mixture. This will help the pie rise during baking.

2. Preparing the egg white foam:
- Beat the egg whites at high speed until they become foamy. Gradually add 50 g of powdered sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve a shiny and firm meringue.
- It is essential that the egg whites are beaten properly to give the pie an airy texture.

3. Combining the ingredients:
- Carefully fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture, taking care not to deflate the foam.
- Gradually add the flour, gently mixing with a spatula to maintain a fluffy texture.

4. Baking the first half:
- Prepare a baking tray (approximately 30x20 cm) with parchment paper. Pour half of the pie mixture into the tray and level it evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15 minutes, until the surface is lightly golden but not fully baked.

5. Preparing the filling:
- In a saucepan, boil the semolina with the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. The semolina will thicken the mixture, and the pie will acquire a creamy texture.
- Once the semolina is cooked, add the cottage cheese, sugar, raisins, and grated lemon zest. Mix well until all ingredients are perfectly integrated.

6. Assembling the pie:
- Once the first half of the mixture is baked, remove the tray from the oven. Pour the cottage cheese filling on top, leveling it evenly.
- Pour the remaining batter over the filling and level it again.

7. Final baking:
- Put the tray back in the oven and bake the pie for another 15-20 minutes, or until it becomes golden and firm to the touch.
- Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares.

8. Serving:
- Sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving for an elegant appearance and an extra touch of sweetness.
- You can serve it warm, alongside a scoop of yogurt or vanilla ice cream, to enhance the tasting experience.

Practical tips:

- What are the best types of cottage cheese? Choose fresh cottage cheese with a moderate fat content for a richer taste. Cottage cheese with a fine texture will make the pie creamier.
- Raisins? If you are not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with other dried fruits, such as apricots or figs. You can also add chopped nuts for an extra crunch.
- Gluten-free version: Replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond or oat flour, but make sure to adjust the quantities, as each type of flour absorbs liquid differently.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Why is it important to separate the egg whites from the yolks? This technique helps achieve an airy and foamy texture, essential for the pie.
2. Can I prepare the pie in advance? Absolutely! The pie can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days, and the flavor will intensify as it cools.
3. What can I pair the cottage cheese pie with? This pie pairs perfectly with a vanilla sauce or fruit syrup, as well as a cup of coffee or flavored tea.

This cottage cheese pie with raisins is not just a simple dessert, but a culinary experience that brings back memories of moments spent with loved ones. So, get ready to share a slice of this delicious pie with dessert lovers!