Dutch cheese pie

Dutch Cheese Pie – A Flavorful Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

The Dutch cheese pie is a savory recipe that combines the fluffy texture of the dough with a delicious cheese filling, ideal for serving either as a dessert or as a snack. This pie has a long history, being lovingly prepared over the years in various corners of the world. Each family has its own version, and today we present a recipe that blends tradition with a touch of innovation.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 800 grams of wheat flour (preferably type 000)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 teaspoons of oil (optional, for a richer dough)
- 2 teaspoons of vinegar (to achieve a more elastic dough)
- 25 grams of fresh yeast, dissolved in water
- 200 grams of yogurt (for a creamier texture)
- Grated zest of one orange (for a citrus aroma)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (for a sweet and fragrant taste)
- 500 ml of warm water (almost hot, but not boiling)

For the filling:
- 500 grams of cheese (cow, sheep, or goat, depending on preference; I used cow cheese)
- 200 grams of raisins (for a sweet note)
- 2 egg yolks (to bind the filling and give it a smooth texture)

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by placing the flour in a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the salt, dissolved yeast in warm water, oil, vinegar, yogurt, orange zest, and vanilla sugar. Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon, then start kneading with your hands. Gradually add warm water until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

PRACTICAL TIP: It is important not to use hot water, as it can kill the yeast. Warm water activates the yeast, helping the dough rise properly.

Step 2: Rising the dough
Shape the dough into a ball and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in volume.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the chosen cheese with the raisins and egg yolks. Make sure the cheese is well crumbled to achieve a uniform mixture. You can also add a little sugar if you prefer a sweeter filling.

Step 4: Forming the pie
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out each part of the dough with a rolling pin, obtaining a sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Evenly spread the cheese filling on the first sheet of dough, leaving a few centimeters free on the edges to seal the pie.

Step 5: Rolling the pie
Carefully roll the dough with the filling, forming a tight roll. Make sure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. Repeat the same with the second part of the dough.

Step 6: Baking
Prepare a baking tray by greasing it with butter and flour. Place the pies in the tray and let them rise for another 20 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the pies for 40 minutes or until they become golden and crispy.

PRACTICAL TIP: Check the pies using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the pies are baked.

Serving and Suggestions

This Dutch cheese pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a cup of natural yogurt or a portion of sour cream for a creamy contrast. Also, a slice of pie pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or coffee, making it an ideal snack for relaxing afternoons.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of pie (approximately 1/8 of the recipe) contains about 280-300 calories, depending on the type of cheese used. This pie is rich in protein due to the cheese and egg yolks, as well as carbohydrates from the flour, providing sustainable energy. The raisins add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use low-fat cheese?
Yes! You can opt for low-fat cheese if you want a healthier version of the pie.

2. How can I vary the filling?
Replace the raisins with other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, or add chopped nuts for extra texture.

3. Is it possible to prepare the pie in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie, bake it, and then keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it slightly before serving.

Personal Note

This pie reminds me of the moments spent with family, when everyone would gather around the table to enjoy the treats prepared with love. Each bite is an explosion of flavors, and the cooking process becomes a joyful and traditional activity. I wish you much success and enjoy making this delicacy!