Sweet cheese pie with flaky crust

Sweet Cheese Pie with Flaky Pastry

Sweet cheese pie with flaky pastry is a classic dessert that combines delicate textures and enticing flavors. It’s a recipe that reminds us of family moments, cooking with love, and the joy of sharing a delicious dish. This version of the recipe comes with a few modifications inspired by Gaby, a dear friend, to whom I sincerely thank for the inspiration.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients

For the pastry:
- 4 tablespoons of lard
- 650 g of all-purpose flour (type 000)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 200 ml of milk
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- a pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 850 g of sweet cottage cheese (preferably homemade)
- 6 eggs
- 3 tablespoons of semolina
- zest of one lemon
- rum essence (to taste)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 egg for brushing

Necessary utensils
- A large bowl
- A rolling pin
- A baking dish (25x30 cm)
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- A fork

Preparation

1. Preparing the pastry dough
Start by sifting the flour and baking powder together to prevent lumps. In a large bowl, combine the lard with the sugar using a spatula or a mixer with beaters. Mix well until the mixture becomes creamy. Then, gradually add the flour, eggs, salt, and milk. Knead the dough by hand until you achieve an elastic and non-sticky texture.

2. Dividing the dough
Once you have the dough, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out the first sheet using a rolling pin, ensuring it fits the dimensions of your baking dish.

3. Preparing the baking dish
Grease the baking dish with butter, then place the first sheet inside. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes, until the sheet is lightly golden.

4. Preparing the filling
In a separate bowl, mix the sweet cottage cheese with the eggs, semolina, lemon zest, rum essence, and sugar. If the cheese is drier, you can adjust the amount of semolina or eggs to achieve the desired consistency. Mix the ingredients well until smooth.

5. Assembling the pie
Remove the baking dish from the oven and pour the cheese filling over the baked sheet. Spread the filling evenly using a spatula. Then, roll out the second sheet and place it on top of the filling. Gently prick the top sheet with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush the surface with a beaten egg for a golden and shiny crust.

6. Baking
Return the dish to the oven and bake the pie for about 40 minutes, or until it is golden and well-browned. The aroma that will fill the kitchen while baking is irresistible.

7. Finishing touches
Once the pie is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Before slicing, you can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant and appealing look.

Serving and variations

Sweet cheese pie can be served plain or with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. A delicious combination is to pair it with a cup of tea or coffee, making this dessert a perfect choice for an afternoon snack.

If you want to add extra flavor, you can include a handful of raisins in the filling or replace the cheese with goat cheese for a more intense taste. You can also experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon or vanilla to the filling.

Nutritional benefits

Sweet cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health. Semolina adds fiber, and eggs contribute the necessary vitamins for a balanced diet. Of course, it is a dessert to be enjoyed in moderation, considering its sugar and fat content.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with feta or ricotta cheese, but it’s advisable to adjust the sugar amount according to the type of cheese used.

2. What can I do with leftover dough?
If you have leftover dough, you can make cookies or biscuits by adding a bit of sugar and spices.

3. How can I store the pie?
The pie stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven before serving.

4. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
No, but you can try replacing the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed and water and the lard with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

In conclusion, sweet cheese pie with flaky pastry is a recipe that blends tradition with innovation, offering a delicious and comforting dessert. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy cooking! Each slice is a story, and every bite will bring a smile to your face. Enjoy!