Cheese and apple pie
The apple and cheese cake is a classic dessert that combines the sweet aroma of baked apples with the creaminess of cheese, offering an unforgettable experience. This recipe is not only simple but also quick, perfect for an afternoon snack or special occasions. Before we get started, let's explore the ingredients, the history of this cake, and some useful tips to achieve a perfect result.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 200 g flour
- 75 g powdered sugar
- 100 g butter or margarine (at room temperature)
- Butter for greasing the pan
For the filling:
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 large apples (preferably tart for a pleasant contrast)
- 500 g sweet cheese (cottage cheese or ricotta)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon semolina
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- Juice from 1/2 lemon (to prevent the apples from oxidizing)
Step by step:
Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add the softened butter and powdered sugar. Using a spatula or a mixer, beat them well until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. It is important for the butter to be at room temperature for even incorporation.
Then, add the sifted flour and 2-3 tablespoons of cold water. Knead the dough until it becomes homogeneous and elastic, but do not over-knead to avoid a tough dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step helps develop flavors and makes rolling out easier later.
Step 2: Preparing the filling
In another bowl, beat the 2 eggs with 4 tablespoons of powdered sugar until the mixture becomes frothy. Add the sweet cheese, vanilla, flour, and semolina. Mix well until homogeneous. The semolina will help absorb moisture from the cheese, giving it a better texture.
Step 3: Preparing the apples
Wash the apples, cut them into quarters, remove the cores, and then slice them thinly. Drizzle the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and keep them looking fresh.
Step 4: Assembling the cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking pan with butter to prevent the cake from sticking. Once the dough has cooled, spread it evenly in the pan, ensuring to cover the edges as well.
On top of the spread dough, evenly add the cheese mixture, then place the apple slices over the filling. Sprinkle a little sugar over the apples to caramelize them during baking.
Step 5: Baking
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cake turns golden. In the last 10 minutes, reduce the temperature to 160°C to avoid burning the top.
Step 6: Serving
After the cake has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look. It can be served warm or at room temperature, delicious both plain and accompanied by vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream.
Practical tips:
1. Choosing the apples: Use tart apples, such as Granny Smith or other varieties, to add a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cheese.
2. Variations: You can add raisins or chopped nuts to the filling for a crunchy texture and extra flavor.
3. Enhancements: If you want a more intense flavor, add a bit of cinnamon to the cheese filling.
Nutritional benefits
This cake contains cheese, a good source of protein and calcium, while apples provide fiber and essential vitamins. Although it is a dessert, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use soy or vegan cheese? Yes, for a vegan option, you can use soy cheese and vegan butter.
2. Can it be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen, but for best results, it is recommended to consume it freshly baked.
3. What drinks pair well with the cake? A cup of warm herbal tea or a glass of sweet wine will perfectly complement the flavors of this dessert.
The apple and cheese cake is a dessert that blends tradition with modern taste, reminding you of moments spent with family. Experiment with the ingredients and make this recipe unique according to your personal preferences. Enjoy!
Ingredients: For the dough: 200 g flour, 75 g powdered sugar, 100 g butter or margarine, butter for greasing the pan. For the filling: 2 eggs, 4 tablespoons powdered sugar, 2 apples, 500 g sweet cheese, 1 tablespoon flour, 1 tablespoon semolina, 1 packet vanilla sugar, 1/2 lemon.
