Russian tart with cheese and chocolate

Russian tart with cheese and chocolate

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10

In the world of desserts, the Russian tart with cheese and chocolate is a true delight, with a perfect balance between sweet and salty, creamy and crunchy textures. This recipe was inspired by a specialty magazine, but I made some adjustments to enhance its flavor and texture. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this tart will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 1 cup flour
- 1 handful of sugar
- 80 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 4 tablespoons cold milk
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon cocoa

For the filling:
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 3 eggs
- 4 tablespoons semolina
- 2 heaping tablespoons sour cream
- 1 cup sugar
- Zest of one orange (for a fresh taste)

For the topping:
- 125 g flour
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- A handful of coarsely chopped nuts
- 50 g raisins
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 100 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 tablespoons water

Step by step

Step 1: Prepare the crust

1. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, salt, and cocoa. This mixture will form the delicious base of your tart.
2. Add the egg and the butter cut into small pieces. Use your fingers to incorporate the butter into the flour until the mixture becomes crumbly.
3. If the dough is too dry, gradually add the cold milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the right consistency. The dough should be moist but not sticky.
4. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. This will help firm up its structure.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

1. In another bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the sour cream and sugar until you get a creamy mixture. It's essential to use quality cheese, as it will influence the final taste of the tart.
2. Add the eggs, semolina, and orange zest. Continue mixing until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Set the filling aside and prepare the topping.

Step 3: Prepare the topping

1. In a bowl, mix the flour, cocoa, chopped nuts, sugar, and raisins. These ingredients will provide a contrast of textures, adding extra flavor to your tart.
2. Add the room temperature butter and, if necessary, the two tablespoons of water. Use your fingers to create a crumbly mixture, similar to a crumble dough.

Step 4: Assemble the tart

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
2. Remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out evenly in the tart pan, covering the edges well, then prick it with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming.
3. Pour the cheese filling over the crust and level it with a spatula.
4. Sprinkle the crumbly topping over the filling.
5. Bake the tart for about 50 minutes. For the first 40 minutes, bake at a higher temperature, and for the last 10 minutes, lower the temperature to allow the filling to set without burning.

Step 5: Cooling and serving

1. Once the tart is baked, let it cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 30 minutes. This will help prevent cracking.
2. After it has cooled completely, remove the tart from the pan and cut it into generous slices. You can serve it plain or with a drizzle of sour cream or vanilla ice cream to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Helpful tips

- Ingredients: Choose fresh, low-fat cottage cheese for a healthier option. You can replace sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a healthier version.
- Texture: If you prefer a moister tart, you can add a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt to the filling.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of nuts (almonds, hazelnuts) or add spices like vanilla or cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Frequently asked questions:
- How can I tell if the tart is baked? The tart is done when the edges are golden, and the filling is firm to the touch.
- Can I use another type of cheese? Yes, ricotta cheese is a delicious alternative, but make sure it has a similar consistency.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of Russian tart with cheese and chocolate has approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This tart provides a good source of protein from cheese and eggs, as well as antioxidants from cocoa. It is a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Delicious pairings

To complete the culinary experience, you can serve this Russian tart with a cup of fruit tea or a flavored coffee. Vanilla ice cream will add a refreshing touch, while a berry sauce can bring a contrast of acidity that balances the sweetness of the tart.

Personal note

This tart is more than just a dessert; it is a way to gather family and friends around the table, to create memories and enjoy the simple moments of life. Each slice is an invitation to stories and smiles, and its unique taste will surely make you return to this recipe.

I wish you happy cooking and joy in every bite!