Sweet Cheese Pie Fried in a Pan

Sweet cheese pie fried in a pan is a delicacy that combines tradition with a modern twist, bringing a smile to the face of anyone who savors it. This recipe is not just a simple pie; it is a culinary journey, full of flavors and textures that invite you to enjoy every bite. Whether you prepare it for a gathering with friends, for a family meal, or simply to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 14

Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 1 kg flour
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons raw sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 700 ml lukewarm milk
- 50 ml rice oil (or any oil of your choice)
- 50 g fresh yeast (or 2 packets of dry yeast)
- Oil for frying

For the filling:
- 750 g sweet cheese (cottage cheese or ricotta, as preferred)
- 2 eggs
- Sugar to taste
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- Grated lemon zest (to taste)

The story of the recipe
Sweet cheese pie has deep roots in culinary tradition, being prepared in various forms around the world. This pan-fried version is ideal for those who want a quick and tasty dessert without using the oven. The origins of this recipe are lost in time, but the idea of combining cheese with light and fluffy dough has always been appreciated, offering a pleasant contrast between the creamy filling and the crispy exterior.

Step by step: How to prepare sweet cheese pie fried in a pan

1. Preparing the dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. If using dry yeast, make sure to dissolve it in a little lukewarm milk beforehand. This will activate the yeast, ensuring that your dough will be fluffy and airy.
- Add the egg yolk and lukewarm milk, mixing well until you obtain a homogeneous dough.
- Start adding the oil gradually, mixing continuously, just like when making mayonnaise. This technique helps achieve a finer and more elastic dough.
- Knead the dough for about 20 minutes, until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

2. Let the dough rise:
- Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise for 15-20 minutes in a warm place. This step is essential for obtaining a fluffy pie.

3. Preparing the filling:
- Meanwhile, in another bowl, mix the sweet cheese with the eggs, sugar, vanilla sugar, and grated lemon zest. Taste the filling and adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. This will add an aromatic and fresh note to the dish.

4. Forming the pies:
- Once the dough has risen, divide it into 14 equal pieces. The size of these can vary depending on the size of your pan.
- Grease the work surface with a little oil to prevent sticking. Roll each piece of dough into a thin sheet. In the center of each sheet, place a tablespoon of the cheese filling and gather the edges of the dough towards the center, forming a round ball.

5. Frying the pies:
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add a teaspoon of oil. Use a non-stick pan to reduce the amount of oil used and to prevent sticking.
- When the pan is well heated, place the pies in the pan. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy.

6. Serving:
- Once the pies are ready, serve them warm, sprinkled with powdered sugar on top. This addition will provide a pleasant contrast with the sweet filling and will make the dish look irresistible.

Practical tips
- Choosing the cheese: You can experiment with different types of sweet cheese, such as ricotta or cottage cheese. Each will bring a unique texture and flavor.
- Vegan option: You can replace the eggs in the filling with a mixture of mashed banana or applesauce for a vegan option.
- Additional spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling to give it an even more aromatic taste.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
- Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour to obtain a healthier version, but you may need to adjust the amount of liquids.

- How can I store the pies to keep them fresh?
- The pies can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in a pan to restore their crispy texture.

- What drinks pair best with sweet cheese pie?
- A cup of herbal tea or warm milk would be excellent companions for this delicacy. Additionally, a sweet wine or fresh fruit juice would add a refreshing note.

Conclusion
Sweet cheese pie fried in a pan is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Each bite is an explosion of flavors, and the cooking process becomes a joyful activity. So don’t hesitate to put on your apron, start cooking, and enjoy the result! No matter the occasion, this pie will surely be a guaranteed success. Enjoy your meal!