Sweet cheese pie

Sweet Cheese Pie: A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Who doesn't love a sweet cheese pie? This simple and delicious recipe is a treasure from traditional cuisine, perfect for any occasion, from a gathering with friends to a family meal or even as dessert at a party. Its enticing flavors and soft texture make it irresistible.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 250 g butter (at least 80% fat)
- 200 ml sour cream
- 2 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 10 g baking powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- a pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 600 g cottage cheese (make sure it is well-drained)
- 3 eggs
- grated zest of one lemon
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 4 tablespoons semolina
- 300 ml milk
- a pinch of salt
- sugar to taste (according to preference)

Brief History

Sweet cheese pie is a dessert that has traversed generations, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. It is often associated with moments of celebration but can be enjoyed anytime due to its simplicity. This recipe evokes family memories of cooking together and sharing special moments, symbolizing comfort and warmth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the filling

1. In a saucepan, bring the milk to a boil with the vanilla sugar, grated lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. These flavors will enhance the filling.
2. When the milk begins to boil, gradually add the semolina while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens. This will be the base of the filling.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool, then add the well-drained cottage cheese, eggs (one at a time), sugar, and mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

Step 2: Preparing the dough

1. In a large bowl, separate the egg yolks from the whites. Start by mixing the flour, diced butter, sugar, vanilla sugar, baking powder, lemon juice, sour cream, and a pinch of salt.
2. Knead the ingredients until you obtain a relatively soft and sticky dough. Don't worry if it's a bit stickier than expected; it will become firmer after resting.
3. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Assembling the pie

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Grease a baking dish with butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
3. On a floured work surface, roll out the first piece of dough into a rectangular shape, then transfer it to the baking dish, spreading it evenly with your fingers.
4. Pour the cheese filling over the dough in the dish, making sure to distribute it evenly.
5. Roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the filling. Gently press the edges to seal.

Step 4: Baking

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pie is evenly golden on top.
2. When done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting.
3. For an elegant finish, sprinkle powdered sugar on top.

Practical Tips

- For added flavor, include 50 g of raisins in the filling. They will hydrate and provide a pleasant texture.
- The dough can be customized: add a few drops of vanilla extract or a splash of rum to enhance the flavor.
- For a more sophisticated look, try cutting the dough with beautiful shapes before placing it over the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cheese is best?
Choose well-drained cottage cheese, but you can also use goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor.

Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, store-bought pastry dough can be a quick and convenient option, but the taste and texture will be different.

How can I store the pie?
Keep the pie in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a week. It can also be frozen for later consumption.

Variations and Serving

- Serve the pie with a dollop of sour cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.
- Try adding a few slices of peaches or apricots to the filling for a fresh and beautiful taste.

This sweet cheese pie is not just a dessert, but a cooking experience filled with satisfaction. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and love behind this traditional recipe. Enjoy!