Quattro Formaggi Pizza

Quattro Formaggi Pie: A Creamy Cheese Delight

If the Quattro Formaggi pizza is a favorite for many, why not indulge in a pie filled with aromatic cheeses? This Quattro Formaggi pie recipe is not only a delight but also an excellent way to transform a simple dessert into a memorable culinary experience. I will guide you step by step to achieve a crispy pie filled with a divine combination of cheeses, sweet raisins, and captivating flavors. The preparation time is about 30 minutes, and the baking time is 45 minutes, resulting in a total of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This recipe will be enough for 8 servings.

Ingredients

- 1 package of pie sheets (approximately 400 g)
- 250 g butter (0.5 package), melted
- 100 g raisins (rehydrated in quality alcohol)
- 5 medium-sized eggs
- 200 g fresh cottage cheese
- 200 g mozzarella (diced)
- 200 g ricotta
- 200 g feta (crumbled)
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- Zest of 1 lemon (finely grated)
- 200 ml natural yogurt
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

History of Cheese Pie

Cheese pies have a long history, being prepared in various forms and with different fillings around the world. This recipe, inspired by cheese traditions, offers a delicious combination that blends the crispy texture of pie sheets with the creamy filling of cheeses. Additionally, the addition of raisins and sweet flavors gives a note of freshness and contrast, transforming the pie into a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by rehydrating the raisins. You can leave them in a bit of rum or brandy for 30 minutes. This will give them an intense flavor and a pleasant texture.

2. Mixing the cheeses: In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese, mozzarella, ricotta, and feta. Use a fork to lightly mash them. Add a pinch of salt, 4 tablespoons of sugar, grated lemon zest, vanilla essence, and the 5 eggs. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

3. Adding the yogurt: Incorporate the yogurt into the cheese mixture, ensuring everything is well combined. This will add creaminess and a pleasant slight acidity.

4. Preparing the baking tray: Grease a baking tray with melted butter using a brush. Lay the pie sheets in such a way that they exceed the edges of the tray. It is important to use 2-3 sheets for each layer.

5. Building the pie: Place a few tablespoons of the cheese mixture in the center of the sheets, evenly sprinkle the rehydrated raisins, then cover with another sheet of pie brushed with butter. Repeat this process until you finish the cheese, ensuring that each layer is well placed and compact.

6. Finalizing the pie: At the end, gather the edges of the pie sheets towards the center and place two additional sheets on top. Beat the remaining egg with the sour cream and pour the mixture over the prepared pie. This will create a golden and savory crust when baked.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and bake the pie for about 45 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy. Check from time to time to ensure it does not burn.

8. Serving: Once the pie is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting. Serve it dusted with sugar, perhaps with a sprinkle of cinnamon, alongside a glass of cold beer or a flavored lemonade. This will add an amazing contrast and highlight the taste of the cheeses.

Practical Tips

- Pie sheets: Make sure the pie sheets are well greased to prevent drying and to achieve a crispy texture.
- Raisins: Using raisins rehydrated in alcohol will enhance their flavor. You can also experiment with other dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots.
- Varied cheeses: If you wish, you can use different cheeses according to your preferences. Brie, gouda, or even a mix of local cheeses can add a unique taste.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or dark chocolate to create a cheese and chocolate pie. These will provide an interesting contrast and a crispy texture.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This cheese pie is rich in protein due to the eggs and cheeses, being an excellent source of calcium. One serving (1/8 of the pie) has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the types of cheese used and the amount of butter. It is important to consume it in moderation, but do not forget to enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use vegan cheeses? Yes, you can replace the cheeses with available vegan options. Make sure to check the labels to ensure they are compatible with your diet.

- How can I store the pie? The pie can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven before serving to regain its crispy texture.

- What other recipes can I try? You can also try other cheese recipes, such as cheese lasagna or pancakes with cheese and spinach filling. These are just as delicious and versatile.

This Quattro Formaggi pie is not just a dessert, but a true culinary experience that will delight your taste buds and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Try this recipe and enjoy a moment of indulgence in the kitchen!