Sweet cheese pastries

Sweet Cheese Pies: A Classic Delicacy That Combines Tradition with Exquisite Flavor

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Introduction

Sweet cheese pies are a dessert that evokes memories of summer days spent in grandparents' kitchens, where the aroma of fresh cheese mingled with that of vanilla. This simple and quick dish is perfect for any time of the day, whether it's a delicious breakfast, a sweet snack, or a savory dessert after dinner. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, sweet filling, these pies are an excellent choice to delight the taste buds of your loved ones.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1 large natural yogurt (or a glass of 300-400 ml of buttermilk)
- 2 eggs
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 400 g sweet cheese
- 3 eggs
- Sugar to taste (approximately 100 g is a good choice)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

For serving:
- Powdered sugar for decoration

History and Origin

Sweet cheese pies have a long history, being a beloved dessert in many cultures around the world. They have evolved over time, adapting to available ingredients and local preferences. In many regions, sweet cheese was a common ingredient used in both sweet and savory dishes. Today, sweet cheese pies are often associated with festive meals and moments of conviviality, where each bite brings a smile to the faces of those who savor them.

Making the Dough

1. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the baking powder, vanilla sugar, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients well to combine them evenly.

2. Adding the wet ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the eggs and yogurt (or buttermilk). Use a spatula or fork to mix the ingredients until a smooth dough forms. It's important not to overwork the dough, as we want to keep the pies light and fluffy.

3. Resting the dough: Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This step will help relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out the dough later.

Preparing the Filling

1. Mixing the cheese: In a separate bowl, add the sweet cheese (make sure it's well-drained if necessary), eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Use a mixer or fork to combine the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. Taste the filling and adjust the sugar according to your preferences.

Forming the Pies

1. Rolling out the dough: Once the dough has rested, sprinkle a work surface with a little flour and roll it out to about 3 mm thick. Use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness.

2. Cutting the pies: Using a round cutter or a glass, cut circles from the dough. Make sure you have enough circles to form the pies, considering that each pie will require two parts.

3. Filling: Place a spoonful of the cheese filling on half of the dough circles. Leave a little space at the edges to seal the pies.

4. Sealing: Cover the filling with another half circle of dough and press the edges to seal them well. You can use a fork to press on the edges, creating an attractive texture and ensuring that the filling won't leak during frying.

Frying the Pies

1. Heating the oil: In a deep skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan with about 1 cm of oil. Heat the oil over medium heat. It's important to check if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

2. Frying the pies: Add the pies to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully turn them.

3. Draining the oil: Once the pies are done, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Serving the Pies

1. Decorating: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the warm pies for an attractive appearance and an extra touch of sweetness.

2. Serving suggestions: These pies can be served warm or at room temperature, alongside a cup of aromatic tea or coffee. Additionally, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a refreshing note and contrasting flavor.

Helpful Tips

- If you want to add an extra flavor note to the filling, try adding raisins or grated lemon zest. These will bring additional flavor and an interesting texture.
- It is important to use quality sweet cheese, as this will significantly influence the final taste of the pies.
- If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the pies instead of frying them. Preheat the oven to 180°C, place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! While sweet cheese is traditional, you can experiment with ricotta or mascarpone for a different filling.

2. How can I adjust the recipe to make smaller pies? Simply cut the dough circles smaller, adjusting the frying time so that the pies cook evenly.

3. What is the best way to store leftover pies? Keep the pies in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven to restore their crispy texture.

Conclusion

Sweet cheese pies are an excellent choice for any occasion, whether you want to impress guests or simply treat your family. This simple and versatile recipe allows you to experiment with ingredients and flavors, making it perfect for every taste. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and share the pies with your loved ones. Enjoy!