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Captivating Cheese Pie Recipe - A Traditional Delight
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 28 pies
Who doesn't love the pleasant aroma of freshly baked pies filled with sweet cheese and raisins? This cheese pie recipe is not just a delight, but also a wonderful way to bring back childhood memories when our grandmothers spoiled us with traditional treats. Let’s embark on this culinary journey, step by step, and achieve spectacular results together!
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 1 kg flour
- 3 large eggs
- 400 ml milk
- 100 g butter (80% fat)
- 270 g sugar
- 50 g fresh yeast
- Zest of one orange
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- A pinch of salt
For the filling:
- 1 kg cottage cheese (well-drained and creamy)
- 3 large eggs
- 200-250 g sugar (depending on preference)
- 150 g raisins (preferably golden)
- 1 tablespoon semolina
- Orange zest
- 3 teaspoons vanilla
- Powdered sugar for decoration
- 2 eggs for brushing the pies
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the dough
We start by preparing the dough, which is the base of these delicious pies. In a small saucepan, we warm the milk over low heat, being careful not to make it too hot, just warm. In another bowl, we melt the butter and let it cool slightly.
Now, we begin to activate the yeast. In a small bowl, we place the crumbled yeast, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of flour, and 5-6 tablespoons of warm milk. We mix well and let the yeast activate for about 15 minutes in a warm place.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, we sift the flour and add the remaining sugar, salt, vanilla, and orange zest. We mix all the dry ingredients with a spatula or a wooden spoon. We add the activated yeast, beaten eggs, and start kneading by hand.
As the ingredients combine, we begin to add the warm milk, kneading continuously. The last ingredient we add is the melted butter, which will give the dough softness. We continue to knead until we obtain an elastic dough that no longer sticks to our hands.
After we have obtained the dough, we cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about an hour, or until it doubles in volume.
Step 2: Preparing the filling
The filling is just as important as the dough. We prepare it just before we start with the pies. In a bowl, we place the well-drained cottage cheese, eggs, and sugar. Using a mixer, we blend the ingredients well. We add the semolina, raisins, orange zest, and vanilla, mixing with a spatula until all the ingredients are well integrated.
It is essential that the cheese is well-drained to avoid a watery filling. If you are using wetter cottage cheese, you can add a little more semolina to absorb the excess moisture.
Step 3: Assembling the pies
After the dough has risen, we place it on a floured surface and divide it into balls the size of a tennis ball. We take each ball and roll it out with a rolling pin, forming circles about 10 cm in diameter.
On each circle of dough, we place a tablespoon of the cheese filling, then fold the dough in half, forming a crescent shape. We seal the edges by pressing with our fingers, then with a fork, to ensure that the filling does not escape during baking.
After we have assembled all the pies, we place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. We put the tray in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up a bit.
Step 4: Baking
We preheat the oven to 170°C. Meanwhile, we beat the two remaining eggs and brush the pies with a brush to give them a golden and shiny color. We bake the pies for 40-45 minutes, checking them after 35 minutes to ensure they are evenly browned.
Once the pies are baked, we take them out of the oven and dust them with powdered sugar. We cover the tray with baking paper, then with 2-3 thick towels, allowing the pies to cool slowly. This step will help maintain the moisture and softness of the dough.
Step 5: Serving
Once cooled, the pies are ready to be enjoyed! The entire house will be filled with the inviting aroma of cheese and vanilla. These pies can be served warm or at room temperature, and are delicious alongside a cup of tea or aromatic coffee.
Practical Tips
- Filling variations: You can experiment with different fillings, such as goat cheese, caramelized apples, or chocolate, to add a personal twist.
- Storage: The pies keep well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to return to their fluffy texture.
- Nutritional benefits: These cheese pies are rich in protein due to the cheese and eggs, and the sugar can be adjusted to make them healthier. Whole wheat flour can be a healthy alternative for the dough.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 15 g of dry yeast, activating it according to the instructions on the package.
- What is the secret to fluffy dough? The secret is to knead the dough well and let it rise in a warm place. Also, make sure the ingredients are at room temperature.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the pies? Adding almond or citrus essence to the filling can provide an extra boost of flavor.
Conclusion
These cheese pies are not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to create unforgettable moments with family. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or at a festive meal, the pies will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with friends and adapt it to your tastes. Enjoy!
Ingredients: Dough: 1 kg flour, 3 eggs, 400 ml milk, 100 g butter (80% fat), 270 g sugar, 50 g fresh yeast, grated orange peel, 2 teaspoons vanilla, a pinch of salt. Filling: 1 kg cottage cheese, 3 eggs, 200-250 g sugar, 150 g raisins, 1 tablespoon semolina, grated orange peel, 3 teaspoons vanilla, powdered sugar + 2 eggs for brushing the pastries.
