Sweet cheese and raisin pie

Delicious Sweet Cheese and Raisin Pie

Discover the joy of making a sweet cheese and raisin pie, a classic recipe that is full of soul, blending tradition with exquisite taste. This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family meal, a celebration, or simply a delicious dessert for an ordinary day.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

- 500 g pie sheets
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 7 eggs
- 1 large yogurt (approximately 400 g)
- 1 small box of sour cream (approximately 200 g)
- 200 ml milk
- 4 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons of honey (or more, to taste)
- Grated zest of 2 lemons and oranges
- 200 g raisins
- 1 vanilla essence
- A pinch of salt
- Oil for greasing
- Butter for greasing the pan

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by thawing the pie sheets if they are frozen. This step is essential to avoid tearing them during assembly. While the sheets are thawing, you can prepare the filling.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
In a large bowl, beat 4 eggs well with 2 tablespoons of honey, 3 packets of vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Then, add the cottage cheese, half of the yogurt, 1 tablespoon of sour cream, and the grated lemon and orange zest. Mix well until the mixture becomes homogeneous. Finally, incorporate the raisins directly into the mixture; there is no need to soak them, as they will swell during baking, providing a delicious taste and texture.

Step 3: Assembling the pie
On a clean countertop, lay the first pie sheet and grease it with oil. Then, place another sheet on top and spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly. Fold the sheets in half lengthwise to fit the size of the pan. Gather the sheets like an accordion and place them in the greased pan. Continue this process until you finish the filling and available sheets. Make sure each sheet is well greased for a crispy crust.

Step 4: Baking the pie
Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat). Bake the pie for about 30 minutes or until the sheets acquire a light brown color. It is crucial not to increase the temperature, as the pie may burn on top before it is completely cooked inside, and personally, I cannot stand burnt pies. I recommend checking it periodically.

Step 5: Final cream
While the pie is in the oven, beat the remaining 3 eggs with the rest of the yogurt, sour cream, milk, and vanilla essence. After the pie has been in the oven for the first half hour, remove the pan and pour the prepared cream evenly on top. Return the pie to the oven and let it bake for another 30 minutes, still on low heat, until the cream is set.

Step 6: Finishing
Once the pie is done, take it out of the oven and sprinkle a packet of vanilla sugar over the entire surface. Let the pie cool slightly, then dust it with powdered sugar for a special appearance.

Practical tips:

1. Patience while baking: Low heat is key to achieving a perfectly baked pie without burnt parts.
2. Customization: If you prefer a sweeter taste, add more honey or sugar to the filling. You can replace honey with sugar or fructose, depending on your preferences.
3. Vegan version: You can experiment with tofu or plant-based yogurt for a vegan version of this pie.

Nutritional benefits:

- Cottage cheese is a rich source of protein and calcium, contributing to bone and muscle health.
- Raisins bring a note of natural sweetness and are rich in antioxidants, helping to combat oxidative stress.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a different texture.

2. How can I store the pie?
It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

3. What can I serve with the pie?
This pie pairs perfectly with a scoop of Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream, for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Serving:

Cut the pie into generous squares and serve it warm, alongside a cup of fragrant tea or freshly brewed coffee. This sweet cheese and raisin pie will surely become a family favorite, bringing joy and nostalgia in every slice. Enjoy!