Russian cheese pie

Cheese and Semolina Cake - A Fluffy and Tasty Delight

Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

I present to you a recipe for a cheese and semolina cake that will delight you with its fluffy texture and delicate flavor! This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family meal, a dessert for a party, or simply a delicious snack during the day.

A Bit of History
Cheese cakes are a well-known delicacy in many cultures, each having its own unique variation. Over time, they have been appreciated not only for their taste but also for the versatility of the ingredients used. The combination of cheese with semolina and sour cream offers a delicious contrast, and the addition of raisins gives it a touch of natural sweetness.

Ingredients
- 500 g creamy cheese (I recommend Pilos for a fine texture)
- 3 tablespoons semolina
- 5 tablespoons sour cream (with a higher fat content for a rich taste)
- 3 eggs
- a pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons Green Sugar (or sugar, to taste)
- vanilla essence (about a teaspoon)
- 50 g raisins (optional)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the semolina
Start by adding the semolina to a bowl and mixing it with the sour cream. Use a spatula to thoroughly combine the mixture. Cover the bowl with a towel and set it aside for 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the semolina to absorb moisture from the sour cream and become soft.

2. Preparing the raisins
In another bowl, place the raisins and pour hot water over them, just enough to cover them completely. Let them soak for 10 minutes, then drain them and place them on a paper towel to remove excess water. This will help the raisins not sink into the batter during baking and remain evenly distributed.

3. Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, crack the eggs and add the Green Sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix well with a whisk or electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. Add the vanilla essence and creamy cheese, mixing well to achieve a smooth texture.

4. Incorporating the semolina
Once the semolina has absorbed well, add it to the cheese and egg mixture, mixing with a spatula to integrate the ingredients. Finally, add the raisins and gently mix to distribute them evenly.

5. Preparing the baking dish
Choose a baking dish or a Pyrex dish, grease it well with butter to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the mixture into the dish, leveling it evenly with a spatula.

6. Baking the cake
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until it turns golden on top and passes the toothpick test (it should come out clean).

7. Cooling and serving
Once the cake is baked, let it cool for 10-15 minutes. You can serve it warm or cold, as you prefer. It is delicious both plain and with a sour cream sauce, whipped cream, or sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Practical Tips
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a few extra tablespoons of sugar or Green Sugar, to taste.
- Experiment with additional flavors, such as lemon or orange zest, for a fresh note.
- You can replace the raisins with other dried fruits, such as cranberries or dried apricots, for a different version of the cake.
- This cake pairs perfectly with a warm drink, such as herbal tea or creamy coffee.

Nutritional Information
The cake contains a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, while the semolina brings complex carbohydrates. However, be mindful of portions, as it can be calorie-rich, especially if you add sour cream or whipped cream when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use cottage cheese instead of creamy cheese?
Yes, but make sure to choose well-drained cheese to avoid excess moisture.
- Is the cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian.
- How long can the cake be stored?
You can keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best consumed freshly made.

Enjoy every bite of this cheese and semolina cake, which combines tradition with modern taste. This recipe will make you fall in love with cooking!