Sweet cheese and pear cake

Sweet cheese and pear cake - A delicacy that combines the sweetness of fruit with the creaminess of cheese

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 50-55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who can resist a sweet cheese and pear cake that emanates aromas of vanilla and lemon? This recipe is a true indulgence, perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family meal, a gathering with friends, or a dessert for a special moment.

The history of sweet cheese cake is fascinating, being a classic combination of simple yet delicious ingredients found in many cultures. This dessert is a symbol of comfort, reminding us of moments spent with loved ones, savoring every bite.

The ingredients needed for this recipe are easy to find, and each plays an essential role in achieving a perfect result.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 400 g flour
- 200 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 egg

For the filling:
- 1 kg pears (choose ripe but firm pears)
- 500 g fresh cheese (unsalted)
- 3 eggs
- 100 g sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 essence of vanilla
- Zest of one lemon

Step by step

1. Preparing the dough
We start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, beat the egg with the powdered sugar and butter until we obtain a creamy and fluffy mixture. It is important that the butter is at room temperature for easy incorporation.

We add the flour mixed with baking powder and knead a homogeneous dough. Don't be afraid if the dough seems sticky; it's normal. We form a ball from the dough and wrap it in plastic wrap, then let it chill in the fridge for an hour.

2. Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, we take care of the filling. We wash the pears, peel them, and cut them: half we slice thinly, and the other half we cut into small cubes. This combination of textures will add an interesting note to the cake.

In another bowl, we beat the egg whites with the sugar until they become a stiff and shiny foam. In another container, we mix the fresh cheese with the egg yolks, vanilla essence, lemon zest, and sugar. We add the milk and mix well.

3. Combining the mixtures
After the egg whites are beaten, we carefully add them to the cheese mixture, folding gently with a spatula to keep the air in the foam. Finally, we add the pear cubes and mix gently to incorporate them evenly.

4. Assembling the cake
After an hour, we take the dough out of the fridge and, on a floured surface, roll it out into a thin sheet, large enough to cover the baking tray. We line a tray with baking paper and place the sheet of dough, making sure to cover the edges as well.

We pour the cheese and pear filling into the prepared tray, then arrange the slices of pear on top.

5. Baking
We preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. We place the tray in the oven and bake the cake for 50-55 minutes, until it becomes golden and firm to the touch.

6. Cooling and serving
After the cake is ready, we let it cool completely in the tray. Then, we cut it into squares and serve it. It is delicious both warm and cold!

Practical tips
- Choosing pears: Opt for ripe but firm pears that will not turn to mush during baking.
- Cheese: Use quality fresh cheese, as this will significantly influence the final taste of the cake.
- Gluten-free option: You can replace the flour with a gluten-free variant, but make sure to use a mix that contains binding agents to achieve the same texture.
- Serving: The cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce. A vanilla sauce or a spoonful of sweet cream would also be excellent!

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can replace the pears with apples, apricots, or peaches, depending on your preferences.
2. How can I enhance the flavor? Add some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a more complex taste.
3. How long does the cake last? If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the cake will stay fresh for 3-4 days.

Nutritional benefits
This cake offers nutritional benefits due to the fresh cheese, which is a good source of calcium and protein, and the pears, rich in fiber and vitamins. A serving provides approximately 250 calories, with a balanced content of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats from the butter.

I invite you to try this sweet cheese and pear cake recipe and enjoy every bite! It is a dessert that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!