Sweet cheese pie

Sweet cheese pasca: a traditional recipe, full of flavor and memories

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn’t remember the inviting aroma of freshly baked pasca? This traditional dessert is more than just a simple recipe; it is a story passed down from generation to generation, symbolizing joy and celebration. Whether it’s for a holiday meal or a simple family gathering, sweet cheese pasca is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 1 cup of lukewarm milk (about 250 ml)
- 1 cup of oil mixed with melted margarine (about 250 ml)
- 2 beaten eggs
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- Zest of one lemon
- 1-2 drops of rum essence
- 500 g of flour
- 1 packet of dry yeast (7 g)

For the filling:
- 800 g of sweet cheese
- 3 eggs
- 100 g of sour cream
- Zest of one lemon
- 1-2 drops of rum essence
- 8 tablespoons of sugar

Necessary utensils
- Bread machine (optional, for making the dough)
- Mixing bowl
- Removable cake pan (20-25 cm diameter)
- Oil and flour for greasing the pan
- Knife and fork

Step by step

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by adding all the ingredients for the dough into the bread machine. First, add the liquids: lukewarm milk and the oil mixed with melted margarine. Then, add the beaten eggs, sugar, lemon zest, rum essence, flour, and dry yeast. Select the kneading program. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy and well-aerated dough.

2. Letting it rise:
After the dough has been kneaded, let it rise in a warm place, covered with a clean towel, for about 1 hour or until it doubles in volume. This is the perfect time to prepare the filling ingredients.

3. Preparing the cheese filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sweet cheese with the eggs, sour cream, lemon zest, rum essence, and sugar. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Taste the filling to ensure it is sweet and flavorful enough for your preferences.

4. Forming the pasca:
After the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a thick sheet about one finger thick. Place the sheet in the prepared cake pan, greased with oil and floured, ensuring that the dough exceeds the edges of the pan. Let it rise again for about 15-20 minutes.

5. Filling and decorating:
Once the dough has risen, pour the cheese filling into the center, smoothing it out. Cut the edges of the dough at the level of the pan, and for an artistic touch, braid a small portion of the dough and place it around the pasca as a decorative edge. You can also cut a few strips to place in the center of the pasca, resembling sun rays.

6. Baking:
Before placing the pasca in the oven, brush it with a beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 35-40 minutes, or until the pasca is well browned and springs back slightly when touched.

7. Cooling and serving:
After the pasca is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. It is delicious both warm and cold, and the flavors become even more intense after a few hours of resting.

Serving suggestions
Sweet cheese pasca is served with a cup of tea or aromatic coffee. You can add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess or sprinkle powdered sugar for an elegant look. This recipe is perfect for sharing with loved ones, becoming a highlight at festive meals.

Tips and useful advice
- Make sure the milk is lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast without destroying it.
- If you don’t have a bread machine, you can knead the dough by hand, ensuring you invest time in kneading to achieve a fluffy texture.
- If you want to add a twist, you can replace the rum essence with vanilla or add raisins or candied fruits to the filling.
- The pasca keeps well in the fridge, covered, for a few days, but its best flavor is on the day of baking.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with cottage cheese or ricotta, but make sure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

2. How can I tell if the pasca is baked?
A simple way is to insert a toothpick in the center of the pasca; if it comes out clean, the pasca is ready.

3. Can I freeze the pasca?
Yes, the pasca can be frozen. Cut it into slices and wrap each slice in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer.

4. What other desserts can be paired with pasca?
Pasca pairs wonderfully with chocolate cakes or fruit desserts, such as apple tart or brownies. A cup of mulled wine can also be an inspired choice to complement the meal.

I wish you much success in cooking! May sweet cheese pasca become one of your favorite recipes, filled with moments of joy and enjoyment shared with loved ones!