Sweet cheese and raisin pie

Sweet cheese and raisin pie: a simple dessert loved by the whole family

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8

A brief history of sweet cheese pie

Sweet cheese pies have a long tradition in our cuisine, considered a symbol of comfort and joy in the family. These desserts are often prepared on holidays or on Sundays, when the whole family gathers around the table. This simple yet flavorful recipe pays tribute to the humble yet rich-tasting ingredients that blend perfectly to create a delicacy that will delight any palate.

Ingredients

- 1 package of pastry sheets (about 250 g)
- 400 g sweet cottage cheese
- 200 g sweet ricotta
- 200 g powdered sugar (preferably fine for a more delicate texture)
- Zest of one lemon (freshly grated, for added flavor)
- 3 egg yolks (from fresh eggs, for a more intense color)
- A pinch of iodized salt
- 100 g raisins (preferably soaked in water or rum for an intense flavor)
- 100 g butter (melted, for a rich taste and crispy texture)

Preparation technique: step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Make sure the sweet cottage cheese and ricotta are well drained. If you have fresh cheese, it's ideal, but you can also use packaged versions. Soak the raisins in warm water or, better yet, in a little rum for about 10 minutes to make them juicier. This step will add a touch of refinement to your pie.

2. Preparing the filling
In a large bowl, add the sweet cottage cheese, sweet ricotta, powdered sugar, lemon zest, egg yolks, and a pinch of salt. Use a mixer or spatula to mix the ingredients well until you get a fine, homogeneous mixture. Make sure the sugar is completely dissolved. Finally, fold in the soaked raisins, mixing gently to avoid crushing them.

3. Assembling the pie
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Take three sheets of pastry and brush them with melted butter, making sure to overlap them. This will ensure a crispy and golden texture. On the surface of the sheets, add a few tablespoons of the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly in a thin layer.

4. Rolling the pie
After spreading the filling, carefully roll the sheets, forming a tight cylinder. You can use a spatula to help with the rolling, ensuring the filling stays well wrapped. Place the roll in the tray, being careful not to unravel it.

5. Baking the pie
Brush the roll with a little melted butter and place the tray in the preheated oven. Bake the pie for about 30 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy on the surface. Don’t forget to check from time to time, as every oven bakes differently.

6. Cooling and serving
Once the pie is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Before cutting it, lightly sprinkle the surface with water and cover it with a kitchen towel. This will keep the pie moist and prevent it from drying out. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, sprinkled with powdered sugar for a festive look.

Serving suggestions and variations

The sweet cheese and raisin pie is delicious served plain, but you can accompany it with a scoop of fresh cream or a vanilla sauce for an extra touch of elegance. You can also add some chopped nuts to the filling for a different taste and texture.

If you like to experiment, you can replace the raisins with other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries. Each variation will bring a new breath to your recipe.

Nutritional benefits

This pie is not only tasty but also nutritious! Sweet cottage cheese and ricotta are excellent sources of protein, while raisins provide fiber and antioxidants. The egg yolks contribute healthy fats, essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen pastry sheets?
Yes, it is recommended to let them thaw completely before use to avoid tearing.

2. How can I store the pie?
Keep the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can also be consumed the next day, but for optimal taste, it is recommended to be eaten fresh.

3. What drinks pair well with the pie?
A cup of fruit tea or a glass of warm milk are excellent choices to accompany the sweet cheese pie.

4. Can I replace sugar with a sweetener?
Yes, use a baking-friendly sweetener, being careful to adjust the quantity according to the instructions on the package.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get to work! The sweet cheese and raisin pie will surely become a favorite in your home, bringing smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!