Delicious cheese pie

Delicious Cheese Pie

If you're tired of ordinary desserts and looking for something truly special, cheese pie is the perfect choice! With thin layers of Yufka, creamy cheese filling, and a hint of vanilla and orange zest, this dessert will captivate you from the very first bite. The preparation is simple and quick, and the final result is simply the ultimate delight! This pie is ideal to be enjoyed warm, alongside creamy yogurt or simply dusted with powdered sugar.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients

- 1 pack of 3 Yufka sheets (available at Turkish or Arab shops; you can also use regular pie sheets)
- 230 g salty cheese (Greek telemea)
- 400 g Greek yogurt
- 200 g sweet cheese (you can opt for ricotta or mascarpone)
- 300 g cream cheese (recommend Apetito or Ceva fin și pufos Delaco)
- 200 g sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla
- Zest of one orange
- 1 egg and 2 egg yolks
- 2 additional egg yolks for brushing
- Powdered sugar for decoration
- A larger baking tray (40x34 cm)

Necessary utensils

- Electric or hand mixer
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper (or oil and flour for greasing)
- Grater or zester for the orange peel

Instructions

1. Preparing the tray: Start by lining the tray with parchment paper or, if you prefer the classic method, grease the tray with oil and sprinkle flour, ensuring it is evenly coated.

2. Preparing the cheese filling: In a large bowl, add the salty cheese, sweet cheese, cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, egg, and egg yolks. Use the mixer to blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. Add the grated orange zest for an extra flavor boost. Mix again to ensure everything is well incorporated.

3. Assembling the pie: Place the first sheet of Yufka in the tray, making sure to spread it evenly. Generously brush the entire surface with Greek yogurt. Add half of the cheese mixture. Then, place the second sheet of Yufka, brushing it with yogurt as well. Pour the remaining cheese filling on top.

4. Finishing the pie: Place the last sheet of Yufka, first brushing it with yogurt, then with the beaten egg yolks. This will create a golden and delicious crust.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the pie for 40 minutes or until it turns golden and beautifully browned. You will know it is ready when the edges are crispy and the filling has set.

6. Serving: Let the pie cool slightly before cutting it. You can serve it warm, dusted with powdered sugar on top. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of yogurt, which will balance the sweetness.

Helpful tips

- Choosing the cheese: Use fresh, quality cheese. Greek telemea provides the perfect salty flavor, but you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as feta or cottage cheese.

- Yufka sheets: If you can't find Yufka sheets, you can use regular pie sheets. Make sure to brush them well with yogurt to prevent drying out.

- Variations: Instead of orange zest, you can try lemon zest or even cinnamon for a different flavor. You can also add raisins or nuts to the filling for an interesting texture.

Nutritional benefits

Cheese pie is an excellent source of protein due to the cheese and yogurt. Additionally, Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics, which contribute to digestive health. The orange zest not only adds flavor but is also a source of antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I make the pie a day in advance?
Yes, the pie can be prepared a day in advance, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best flavor. You can gently reheat it before serving.

- How can I store the pie?
Keep the pie covered in the refrigerator. It is delicious cold, but it is best enjoyed warm.

Serving recommendations

This cheese pie pairs perfectly with a cup of fragrant tea or a glass of fresh milk. You can also enjoy it alongside a green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers for a pleasant contrast between sweet and savory.

In conclusion, the delicious cheese pie is a simple, quick, and extremely satisfying recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can prepare a dessert that will surely impress family and friends. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and add a personal touch so that each preparation is unique!