Turnatica

Cheese Turnatica – a simple and delicious dessert

Turnatica is a traditional dessert that embodies warmth and comfort, harmoniously blending the fluffy texture of the dough with a creamy cheese filling. This recipe is perfect for moments when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Paired with a warm tea or aromatic coffee, turnatica becomes an ideal choice for a delightful treat.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 2 fresh eggs
- 1 cup of sugar (approximately 200 g)
- 1 cup of oil (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 cup of milk (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (approximately 10 g)
- 2.5 cups of flour (approximately 350 g, adjust according to desired consistency)

For the filling:
- 200 g of salty cheese (cottage cheese or telemea work well)
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (depending on personal preference)
- 1 egg
- Optional: raisins or sweet cheese for a sweeter version

Preparation Instructions

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until you achieve a smooth and fluffy mixture. This will add an airy texture to the dessert. Add the oil and milk, continuing to mix. It is important to use fresh eggs, as they contribute to the freshness and final flavor of the dish.

2. Adding the dry ingredients:
Sift the flour together with the baking powder into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently mix until there are no lumps. The dough should be soft but not liquid. If it is too runny, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

3. Baking the first half:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking pan with a little oil or butter and pour half of the dough into the pan. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the dough starts to set but is not fully baked.

4. Preparing the cheese filling:
In another bowl, mix the cheese with the sugar and egg until you achieve a smooth mixture. If you want a sweeter taste, add raisins or use sweet cheese. This will add a touch of flavor and texture.

5. Assembling the dessert:
Once the first half of the dough has set, remove the pan from the oven and pour the cheese filling evenly over the dough. Then, cover with the other half of the dough, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

6. Final baking:
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the turnatica is golden and well-baked. A helpful trick is to check if it's done by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the dessert is perfect.

7. Serving:
After removing the turnatica from the oven, let it cool slightly. Then, cut it into squares and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Serve warm, alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

Useful Tips

- Healthier option: If you want to make a healthier dessert, replace part of the oil with applesauce or Greek yogurt.
- Flavoring: Experiment with flavors by adding vanilla or lemon zest to the cheese mixture to enhance the taste.
- Keeping it fresh: Turnatica keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days, and the flavor improves the next day.

Nutritional Benefits

This turnatica recipe is relatively balanced, with a combination of carbohydrates from the flour, protein from the cheese, and healthy fats from the oil. The cheese provides calcium and protein, essential for a healthy diet. However, it's best to consume it in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as sweet cheese, which offers a mildly sweet flavor, or goat cheese for a more intense taste.

2. How can I make turnatica fluffier?
Make sure not to overmix the dough after adding the flour. A gentle mix will keep air in the dough, giving it a fluffier texture.

3. Can turnatica be frozen?
Yes, turnatica can be frozen. Cut it into portions and wrap it well in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. You can thaw it at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Cheese turnatica is a simple and quick dessert, perfect for any occasion. With a rich history and endless variations, this recipe can be adapted to everyone's tastes, making it a family favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and flavors to make it unique. Enjoy every bite and share it with your loved ones!