Sheep cheese pies

Cheese Pie: a traditional delicacy, full of flavor. This recipe combines simple yet tasty ingredients, offering a final result that will delight both family and friends. Cheese pies are perfect for any occasion, whether served as an appetizer or as a dessert. I invite you to discover this savory dish, step by step, and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 60 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 12 pies

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (approximately 25 g)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 250 ml lukewarm water

For the filling:
- 500 g sheep cheese (cottage cheese can also be used, but sheep cheese offers a more intense flavor)
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream
- 200 g sugar
- Juice of one lemon and grated lemon zest (for a more pronounced taste)
- 1 tablespoon of flour

For brushing the pies:
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of oil

Preparing the dough:

1. Start by preparing the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the yeast cube with a pinch of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 2-3 tablespoons of flour. Add a few tablespoons of lukewarm water to activate the yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is a sign that the yeast is active.

2. In a large bowl, add the remaining flour, sugar, vanilla sugar, and the yeast mixture. Start mixing, gradually adding the lukewarm water. It is important that the water is lukewarm, not hot, so as not to kill the yeast.

3. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If you find that the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

4. Form a ball from the dough and place it in a bowl greased with a little oil. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 40 minutes until it doubles in volume.

Preparing the filling:

5. While the dough is rising, you can prepare the filling. In another bowl, mix the eggs with the sugar and vanilla sugar until it becomes a frothy mixture.

6. Add the sheep cheese to the egg mixture. Use a blender or a fork to mash the cheese until you achieve a creamy texture. This step is essential for obtaining a homogeneous filling.

7. Add the sour cream, lemon juice, and zest, as well as one tablespoon of flour. Mix well until all ingredients are perfectly integrated.

Assembling the pies:

8. After the dough has risen, place it on a lightly floured working surface. Roll it out with a rolling pin until you obtain a thin sheet, about 3-4 mm thick.

9. Cut the sheet into squares of about 10x10 cm. In the center of each square, place a tablespoon of the cheese filling.

10. Bring the corners of the square together to form a pie, making sure that the filling is well sealed inside. You can shape them into triangles or leave them square, according to your preferences.

11. Place the pies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for another 10 minutes.

Baking:

12. Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a small bowl, beat the egg with a teaspoon of sugar and a teaspoon of oil. Brush the pies with this mixture to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

13. Place the tray in the oven and bake the pies for 25-30 minutes or until they become golden and nicely browned.

Useful tips:

- For extra flavor, you can also add a little vanilla or cinnamon to the cheese filling.
- If you want to experiment, substitute sheep cheese with ricotta or feta for a different taste.
- The pies can be served warm, but they are just as delicious cold. You can dust them with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant appearance.

Nutritional benefits:

Sheep cheese pies are a good source of protein and calcium, thanks to the cheese and eggs. Additionally, using fresh ingredients and lemon adds vitamins and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use cottage cheese or feta cheese, but sheep cheese offers a more intense flavor.

2. How can I store the pies?
The pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their freshness.

3. Can I freeze the pies?
Yes, the pies can be frozen. Make sure to let them cool completely, then you can wrap them in plastic wrap.

These sheep cheese pies are not just a treat but also an opportunity to bring people together around the table. Whether you serve them at a festive meal or simply as a weekend indulgence, they will surely be appreciated! So put on your chef's attire and enjoy this flavorful culinary process!

 Ingredients: 500 g flour 1 cube of yeast 1 pinch of salt 3 tablespoons of sugar 2 vanilla sugars 250 ml lukewarm water FILLING 500 g sheep cheese (I had it stored in a jar with salt) 3 eggs 2 tablespoons sour cream 200 g sugar juice from one lemon and zest 1 tablespoon flour GREASING 1 egg 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon oil

 Tags:  cheese pie