Easter bread without dough
Crustless Easter Cake - a reinvented traditional delicacy
Who hasn't heard of the Easter cake? This wonderful dessert, often associated with the Easter holidays, has been reinterpreted over time, and today I propose a simple and delicious version that doesn't require a crust. It is a dessert that combines tradition with innovation, perfect for those who want to enjoy the creamy and aromatic taste of cottage cheese but do not want to complicate themselves with making a crust. Moreover, this crustless Easter cake recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for anyone from beginners to experienced cooks.
Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 10
Necessary ingredients:
- 800 g cottage cheese (ideally well-drained to avoid excess moisture)
- 175 g butter or margarine (at room temperature)
- 10 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust the amount to your liking)
- 5 eggs + 3 egg whites (fresh eggs are essential for better taste)
- 5 tablespoons flour (you can also use whole wheat flour for a different flavor)
- 1.5 packets baking powder
- 150 g raisins (optional, you can soak the raisins in rum for extra flavor)
- Grated zest of one lemon (for a fresh taste)
- 1 vanilla essence (or 1 vanilla pod for those who want an extra intensity)
Preparation of the crustless Easter cake:
1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (medium heat). This is an essential step to ensure even baking and a beautiful browning of the cake.
2. Creaming the butter with sugar: In a large bowl, add the butter cut into cubes and the sugar. Use a mixer to combine them at medium speed until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This step is important as the incorporated air will help achieve a fluffy texture.
3. Adding the egg yolks: Continue by adding the egg yolks one by one, mixing well after each addition. The yolks add creaminess and contribute to the final consistency of the cake.
4. Incorporating the cheese: Add the cottage cheese, mixing with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed until the cheese is well incorporated. It is important that there are no lumps, so make sure the cheese is well mashed.
5. Flour and baking powder: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and lemon zest. Gradually add this mixture to the cheese and butter mixture, continuing to mix.
6. Raisins and essences: Incorporate the raisins and vanilla essence, mixing gently to distribute them evenly in the mixture.
7. Beaten egg whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. This step will give an airy and light texture to the cake. Add the egg whites to the cheese mixture in two batches, folding in gently with a silicone spatula to avoid losing air from the egg whites.
8. Preparing the baking pan: Take a baking tray (approximately 25x35 cm), grease it with butter, and dust it with flour or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and will facilitate cooling and removal from the tray.
9. Baking: Pour the mixture into the tray and level the surface. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the cake is well browned and firm to the touch. You can check if it is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
10. Cooling: Once the cake is baked, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 15-20 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to avoid moisture.
Serving and suggestions:
The crustless Easter cake can be served warm or at room temperature. You can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look or accompany it with sour cream or Greek yogurt to add a touch of freshness. Additionally, a slice of cake pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic tea or coffee, turning any moment into an unforgettable experience.
Variations:
- You can add ground nuts for extra texture.
- If you want a chocolate version, add some dark chocolate chunks to the mixture.
- Replace the raisins with other dried fruits, such as cranberries or dried apricots, for a different flavor.
Nutritional benefits:
This cake is an excellent source of protein due to the cottage cheese and eggs, being also a lighter option than the traditional crusted cake. The added flour provides carbohydrates, while the raisins bring a note of natural sweetness and antioxidants. It is a dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation, considering that a slice contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the portion and ingredients used.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but the texture and taste will be different.
2. What if I don't have raisins?
If you don't like raisins, you can omit them completely or replace them with other dried fruits.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled and store it in freezer bags or airtight containers.
4. How can I enhance the flavor?
I recommend using natural essences, such as almond or orange essence, to add a touch of originality.
This crustless Easter cake is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of nostalgia, reminding you of moments spent with loved ones. Try this simple and quick recipe and discover the joy of enjoying a tasty and nutritious dessert, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients: 800 g cottage cheese, 1.5 sachets of baking powder, 5 tablespoons of flour, 10 tablespoons of sugar, 175 g butter or margarine, 5 eggs + 3 egg whites, raisins, lemon zest, 1 vanilla essence
