Sweet cheese pie

Sweet Cheese Pie

Who doesn't love a slice of warm, aromatic sweet cheese pie? This classic recipe, full of flavor and nostalgia, reminds us of moments spent with family around grandma's table, where every bite was a celebration of taste. Making sweet cheese pie is not just a culinary activity but also an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. I invite you to discover each step of this simple yet charming recipe with me.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

- 1 package of phyllo dough (about 400g)
- 1.5 kg of cottage cheese (preferably fresh and well-drained)
- 5-6 eggs (depending on the desired fluffiness of the filling)
- 150 g of sugar (adjust according to taste)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (or vanilla essence for extra flavor)
- Grated zest of one lemon (choose an organic lemon to avoid pesticides)
- 100 g of raisins (the flavor point that enriches the composition)
- Rum essence (optional, but recommended for a delicate aroma)
- Oil for greasing the sheets (for a crispy texture)

History of Sweet Cheese Pie

Sweet cheese pies are a tradition in many culinary cultures, often associated with holidays and special occasions. This recipe has evolved over time but has retained its essence: the amalgamation of simple ingredients to create a savory dessert. This pie is not just a delicacy but also a symbol of hospitality and love for tradition.

Making the Pie

1. Preparing the raisins: Start by soaking the raisins in 50 ml of warm water, adding a few drops of rum essence. Let them soak for about 15-20 minutes to become juicy and flavorful.

2. Preparing the phyllo dough: Preheat the oven to 180 °C. Place a baking tray (about 30x40 cm) lined with baking paper where you will bake the pie. This will help in removing the pie after baking and will make cleaning easier.

3. Layering the sheets: Place the first sheet of phyllo dough in the tray, lightly grease it with oil, then add the second sheet and repeat the process until you have a layer of 6 sheets. Make sure each sheet is greased to achieve a crispy texture.

4. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, mash the cottage cheese with a fork. Add the sugar, vanilla sugar, lemon zest, and eggs. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. Finally, add the drained raisins and mix again. Taste the mixture; if needed, adjust with more sugar or lemon essence according to your preferences.

5. Assembling the pie: Pour the cheese filling over the 6 sheets of phyllo dough in the tray, smoothing it out with a spatula. Then, continue with another layer of sheets, greasing each sheet with oil until you finish the sheets.

6. Finalizing: Finally, beat an egg with a tablespoon of sugar and evenly grease it over the last layer of dough. This will create a golden and appetizing crust.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the pie is golden and crispy on top. The pleasant aroma that will fill the kitchen is a clear sign that the pie is almost ready.

8. Cooling and serving: After removing the pie from the oven, let it cool in the tray for 20-30 minutes. This will help stabilize the filling. Then, cut it into squares or triangles, and if desired, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a festive look.

Practical tip: If you want to add a touch of originality, try adding some chopped nuts or almonds to the filling. These will provide a crunchy texture and a special flavor.

Nutritional Benefits and Calories

This sweet cheese pie is a rich source of protein, thanks to the cottage cheese and eggs. It also contains carbohydrates from the dough and sugar, making it an energizing dessert. Consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. One serving (about 150g) contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought cottage cheese?
Yes, make sure it is well-drained to avoid a too-wet filling.

2. How can I replace the sugar?
You can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount according to taste.

3. Can I make the pie a few days in advance?
Yes, the pie keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

Suggested Pairings

This sweet cheese pie pairs perfectly with a cup of Greek yogurt or a berry sauce. Additionally, a cup of mint tea or a flavored cappuccino will perfectly complement a relaxing meal or a weekend brunch.

The experience of preparing this pie is not just about cooking, but about creating joyful moments with loved ones. Whether you enjoy it at home, at a gathering with friends, or on a special occasion, sweet cheese pie will bring smiles and unforgettable memories. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and embark on a delicious culinary journey!