Sweet cheese and raisin pie

Sweet Cheese and Raisin Pie

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 70 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Servings: 12

Who doesn’t love the warm aroma of a sweet cheese and raisin pie fresh out of the oven? This classic recipe, with its flaky layers and delicious filling, is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family meal, a gathering with friends, or simply a treat for yourself.

The history of sweet cheese pie intertwines with the culinary traditions of many cultures, serving as a symbol of joy and hospitality. This recipe combines the simplicity of ingredients with an easy-to-follow technique, resulting in a dessert that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Ingredients:

- 1 package of frozen pastry sheets (approximately 400 g)
- 700 g sweet cheese (preferably cow cheese, well-drained)
- 5 eggs
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 100 g raisins (not soaked)
- 1 teaspoon of rum essence
- 200 g margarine (melted)
- 3 cans of condensed milk (approximately 400 g each)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (for decoration)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by taking the pastry sheets out of the freezer and letting them thaw at room temperature. Ensure that the sweet cheese is well-drained to avoid a soggy filling. You can use fresh cheese or cottage cheese, depending on your preference.

2. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, beat the 5 eggs with a mixer until frothy. Add the vanilla sugar and the 3 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to mix for a few minutes. This is the moment when the filling will develop an airy texture, perfect for the pie.

3. Incorporating the cheese: Add the sweet cheese to the egg mixture and mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. Add the raisins and rum essence, gently mixing to distribute them evenly in the filling. The raisins add a sweet note and an interesting texture, but if you prefer, you can replace them with cranberries or candied fruit.

4. Assembling the pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a greased (30/20 cm) baking dish lined with parchment paper, place 9 sheets of pastry. Brush each sheet with melted margarine and layer them, creating folds for a rustic look. This trick will make the sheets even flakier.

5. Adding the filling: On top of the first half of the cheese filling, place 3 brushed sheets, followed by the rest of the cheese filling. Finish with 6 brushed sheets, ensuring that the last sheet is placed straight and well-brushed with margarine. This top layer will become crispy and delicious.

6. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 1 hour. It’s important not to open the oven in the first 40 minutes to allow the pie to rise beautifully.

7. Finishing the pie: After the pie has baked, mix the 3 cans of condensed milk with one packet of vanilla sugar and pour the mixture over the hot pie. Put the dish back in the oven for another 10 minutes to create a golden crust.

8. Cooling and serving: Remove the pie from the oven and cover it with a damp towel to cool slowly, which will help retain moisture. Once completely cooled, dust with vanilla sugar and cut into portions.

Helpful tips:

- You can add a personal touch by including lemon or orange zest in the filling, providing a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cheese and raisins.
- Ensure that the pastry sheets are well-brushed, as this will contribute to the final texture of the pie. If you prefer, you can use butter instead of margarine for a richer taste.
- If you enjoy healthier options, you can replace some of the sugar with honey or natural sweeteners.

Delicious combinations:

This sweet cheese pie pairs perfectly with a scoop of Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream, adding a creamy contrast that will enhance the tasting experience. Additionally, a cup of herbal tea or a strong espresso will perfectly complement this dessert.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use cottage cheese instead of sweet cheese? Yes, cottage cheese is a good option, but make sure it is well-drained.
- How can I store the pie? You can keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 4-5 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
- Can the pie be frozen? Yes, the pie can be frozen before it is baked. Make sure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Now that you have all the steps and tricks at hand, all that’s left is to start cooking. Sweet cheese and raisin pie will surely become a favorite in your home, and every bite will bring unforgettable joy! Enjoy!