Sweet cheese and raisin cake
Sweet Cheese and Raisin Cake
Discover the magic of a cake that will delight your senses and make you fall hopelessly in love with every bite! This recipe will take you through an unforgettable culinary experience, combining the slightly crunchy texture of the layers with the creamy filling of sweet cheese, enriched with raisins and divine flavors. We are talking about a cake that will make you devour it all without being able to stop!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12
Ingredients
*For the dough:*
- 160 g cold butter, diced
- 60 g Greek yogurt
- a pinch of salt
- a pinch of baking powder
- 75 g powdered sugar
- 250 g flour (plus extra for rolling out the layers)
- 2 large egg yolks
- vanilla (to taste)
*For the filling:*
- 2 kg cream cheese (preferably from a trusted source, I recommend Lidl)
- 3 large eggs (plus the two egg whites left from the layers)
- 300 g sugar
- vanilla (a lot, for an intense flavor)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- zest of one lemon
- raisins (to taste)
- rum essence (for a touch of refinement)
The story of the cake
This sweet cheese cake recipe has deep roots in culinary tradition, being joyfully prepared in many households. Each family has its own version, but the essence remains the same: a mix of simple yet flavorful ingredients that transforms into an irresistible dessert. This cake is perfect for serving at special occasions, but also at a simple gathering with friends.
Preparation techniques
1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the cold diced butter, Greek yogurt, salt, baking powder, and powdered sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to combine the ingredients. Add the egg yolks and vanilla, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Sifting the flour is essential to avoid lumps, so don’t neglect it! Finally, add the flour and knead the dough until it becomes elastic.
2. Resting the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it will make the dough easier to roll out and help it maintain its shape during baking.
3. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese with the eggs, egg whites, sugar, vanilla, flour, and lemon zest. Mix well until you get a smooth composition. If you want an extra touch of sweetness, add raisins soaked in rum essence.
4. Rolling out the layers: After the dough has chilled, remove it and divide it into two equal parts. On a well-floured surface, roll out the first layer of dough. If you notice that the dough is sticking, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little flour underneath to help it slide more easily.
5. Assembling the cake: Place the first layer of dough in a baking pan lined with parchment paper. Pour the cheese filling and sprinkle raisins here and there. Roll out the second layer and place it on top of the filling, making sure to peel off the parchment paper. You can use a flipping technique to avoid tearing the layer.
6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the cake for 45 minutes, or until it becomes golden and slightly firm to the touch. After baking, let it cool in the pan.
7. Serving: Once cooled, dust the cake with vanilla powdered sugar. Cut into generous portions, it is perfect alongside a cup of tea or coffee.
Tips and variations
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as ricotta or mascarpone, to achieve a different texture and taste.
- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can include chopped nuts or dark chocolate in the filling.
- This cake keeps well in the refrigerator and becomes even more delicious the next day.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use cottage cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes, but make sure it is well drained to avoid excess water in the filling.
2. How can I prevent the dough from sticking to the work surface?
Make sure to use enough flour and roll the dough on a clean, well-floured surface.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, it can be frozen. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
This sweet cheese and raisin cake is not just a dessert, but an experience that brings joy and nostalgia. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, each piece will be a true delight. So, put on your chef's apron and get ready to enjoy a dessert that will warm your heart!
Ingredients: Dough for sheets: 160 g cold butter, 60 g Greek yogurt, a pinch of salt, a knife tip of baking powder, 75 g powdered sugar, 250 g flour, 2 large egg yolks, vanilla, flour for rolling out the sheets. Filling: 2 kg creamy cheese (I bought 2 containers from Lidl, I really like it), 3 large eggs (plus the two egg whites left from the sheets), 300 g sugar, vanilla (a lot for flavor), 3 tablespoons flour, lemon zest, raisins (optional), rum essence.
