Creamy cheese and raisin pie

Creamy Cheese and Raisin Pie

If you're looking for a quick and delicious dessert recipe that combines the crunchy texture of pastry sheets with a decadent filling of cheese and raisins, you've come to the right place! This creamy cheese and raisin pie is a true indulgence, perfect for any occasion, whether it's a special breakfast or a delightful dessert for a gathering with friends.

The origins of this recipe are rooted in culinary history, based on ancient traditions of using cheese and dried fruits in desserts. In many cultures, filled pies have become a symbol of hospitality and the joy of sharing special moments with loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 1 package of pastry sheets (approximately 400 g)
- 450 g creamy cheese (opt for a good quality cheese, such as cottage cheese or ricotta)
- 200 g sour cream
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- 10 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust according to your preferences)
- 100 g raisins (choose quality raisins)
- 1 vial of rum (for flavor, use good quality rum)
- 2 eggs + 1 for brushing
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Powdered sugar for sprinkling on top

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by letting the pastry sheets thaw. It's best to place them in the refrigerator overnight to avoid tearing. Also, soak the raisins in rum for a few hours so they absorb the flavor and become juicier.

2. Mixing the filling: In a large bowl, mix the creamy cheese with the sour cream, semolina, eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Make sure the ingredients are well combined, resulting in a smooth and creamy mixture. Add the drained raisins and gently mix to evenly distribute them in the filling.

3. Assembling the pie: Carefully unfold the pastry sheets to avoid tearing. Brush each sheet with oil using a kitchen brush to make them easier to roll. Divide the sheets into three equal parts.

4. Filling the sheets: Take the first part of sheets and spread the cheese filling on them, leaving edges free to seal the pie. Carefully roll the sheets to form a row of rolls. Repeat the process for the other two parts of sheets and filling.

5. Baking the pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pie in a large tray lined with baking paper (I used the Delimano tray for the first time and was surprised by how beautifully it baked). Brush the pie with an egg yolk for a golden crust.

6. Baking time: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the pie turns golden and crispy. Every oven is different, so check the pie from time to time.

7. Finishing: Once baked, let the pie cool. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look and a touch of sweetness.

Practical tips:
- Use quality creamy cheese, as this ingredient is key to the pie's final taste.
- Raisins can be replaced with other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, to add a different note.
- If you like a stronger flavor, you can add a little cinnamon or vanilla essence to the filling.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use store-bought pastry sheets? Absolutely! Store-bought pastry sheets are an excellent choice, saving time and effort.
- How can I store the pie? The pie keeps well at room temperature for 1-2 days, or in the refrigerator for a few days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispiness.

Ideal pairings: Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce, this pie becomes a memorable dessert. You can also accompany it with a fragrant tea or a sweet wine for an extra touch of flavor.

Nutritional benefits: Creamy cheese is a good source of protein, and raisins add fiber and antioxidants, making this pie not only a delicious dessert but also a healthier option compared to other sweets.

In conclusion, the creamy cheese and raisin pie is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that will delight your senses and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and personalize it to your tastes!