Cheese and raisin pie

Cheese and Raisin Pie

There is nothing more comforting than a warm pie filled with delicious cheese and raisins, served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. This cheese and raisin pie is one of the classic recipes that reminds us of special moments spent with family. Whether we prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge ourselves, every bite is full of flavor and nostalgia. Let’s discover together how to make it step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 200 ml boiled water
- 200 ml oil (preferably sunflower or rapeseed oil)
- A pinch of salt
- Flour (about 500 g, but use as needed)

For the filling:
- 1 kg drained sweet cheese (cottage cheese or ricotta are excellent choices)
- 1 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 100 g semolina
- 100 g raisins (you can choose golden raisins for a milder taste)
- Zest of one lemon (for freshness)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar

For decoration:
- Powdered vanilla sugar (for an attractive appearance)

A Brief History

Cheese and raisin pie has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a popular choice in many cultures. The combination of cheese with any type of dough has been an ingenious way to create a delicious and hearty dish that blends various textures and flavors. This pie is often associated with celebrations but is perfect for an ordinary day as well.

Steps for Preparation

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add the boiled water, oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Then, start adding the flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a soft dough that no longer sticks to your hands. Be careful not to add too much flour, otherwise the layers will be tougher.

2. Cooling the dough:
Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving tender and easy-to-roll-out layers.

3. Preparing the filling:
In a separate bowl, add the drained sweet cheese, sugar, semolina, raisins, lemon zest, and vanilla sugar. Use a mixer or a fork to combine all the ingredients until you get a homogeneous mixture. It is important to check the taste of the filling; if you prefer a sweeter pie, feel free to add a bit more sugar.

4. Assembling the pie:
Once the dough has cooled, divide it into two equal balls. On a floured surface, roll out the first ball into a sheet the size of the baking tray. Line the tray with baking paper, then place the first sheet of dough in the tray. Add the cheese filling, leveling it evenly. Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it over the filling.

5. Baking the pie:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the pie for 30-40 minutes, or until it turns golden and crispy on top. It is important to check the pie from time to time to avoid burning.

6. Finalizing:
Once the pie is ready, let it cool slightly. Sprinkle powdered vanilla sugar on top for an elegant appearance. This is not only a treat for the eyes but also for the taste buds!

Practical Tips

- Cheese: Choose a good quality cheese, preferably well-drained, to avoid excess water in the filling. Cottage cheese is ideal, but you can also experiment with other types.
- Raisins: If you want an extra flavor, you can soak the raisins in a little rum or warm water for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the filling.
- Cream version: For a richer filling, add 200 ml of liquid cream and 2 beaten eggs, mixing all the ingredients well.
- Serving: The pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but keep in mind that the pie will have a different texture. It is recommended to combine whole wheat flour with white flour for the best results.
- How can I store the pie? You can keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven before serving to restore its crispy texture.
- What drink pairs best? A cup of herbal tea or a cappuccino pairs excellently with this pie. If you prefer something sweeter, a sweet wine could be an inspired choice.

Nutritional Benefits

This cheese and raisin pie is not only tasty but also nutritious. The cheese provides essential proteins, while the raisins offer a dose of antioxidants and fiber. However, it is important to consume it in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Now that you have discovered this delicious cheese and raisin pie recipe, you are ready to add it to your culinary repertoire. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For 2 sheets the size of a baking tray: 200 ml boiled water 200 ml oil a pinch of salt flour as needed For the filling: 1 kg drained sweet cheese 1 cup of sugar 100 g semolina 100 g raisins grated lemon peel 2 sachets of vanilla sugar For decoration: powdered vanilla sugar

 Tags:  pie cheese sour cream sugar flour raisins christmas recipes christmas sweets