Cheese pie

Cheese Pie: A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 45-55 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Introduction
Cheese pie is one of those desserts that delights our senses and brings back memories of family moments. With a crunchy crust and delicious filling, this simple recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The origins of this pie are lost in the mists of time, but every housewife has her own version, filled with stories and memories. Let's embark on this adventure of making this wonderful cheese pie together!

Ingredients
- 2 sheets of fresh pastry (tray size: 27x27 cm)
- 250 g fresh cheese (ideally cottage cheese, but you can also use ricotta)
- 2 eggs (one for filling and one for brushing)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar or a few drops of vanilla essence
- A pinch of salt

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preparing the tray
Start by preparing the tray. Line the bottom with parchment paper, making sure to spread it well across the entire surface. This will prevent the pie from sticking and make cleaning easier after baking.

2. Preparing the filling
In a large bowl, mix the fresh cheese with one egg, sugar, lemon and orange zest, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Use a fork to mash the cheese so that you get a smooth mixture. It's important to avoid lumps, as we want a fine and creamy filling.

3. Assembling the pie
Place the first sheet of pastry in the tray, making sure to spread it evenly. If the sheet is larger than the tray, you can trim it slightly to fit. Add the cheese filling and level it with a spatula to ensure an even distribution. Now, place the second sheet of pastry on top, completely covering the filling.

4. Brushing with egg
Beat the second egg in a small bowl and use a brush to evenly coat the surface of the pie. This will help achieve a golden and shiny crust that looks very appetizing.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (375°F). Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the pie bake for 30-40 minutes. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so when the pie turns golden and crispy, it's time to take it out!

6. Cooling and serving
After removing it from the oven, let the pie cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes. This step is important to allow the filling to set. Cut the pie into squares and serve it warm or at room temperature.

Practical Tips
- Cheese: Choose a high-quality fresh cheese for a more intense flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can use sweetened cottage cheese.
- Pastry sheets: If you can't find fresh pastry sheets, you can use frozen pastry sheets, which should be thawed before use.
- Fruit variation: You can add a few slices of apples or pears between the layers of filling for extra flavor and texture.
- Serving: Cheese pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a berry sauce. A cup of fragrant tea or coffee can perfectly complement this delicacy.

Nutritional Benefits
This cheese pie is a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, and the lemon and orange zest adds necessary vitamins for a healthy immune system. Additionally, the sugar can be adjusted according to your preferences, making this dessert healthier.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use feta cheese or goat cheese for a stronger flavor.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

3. Is it suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using plant-based cheese and substituting the egg with a mixture of flaxseeds and water.

Conclusion
Cheese pie is a versatile and easy-to-make dessert that can be customized according to your tastes. I encourage you to experiment with various ingredients and create your unique recipe. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply on the weekend, this cheese pie will surely be a hit. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 2 sheets of fresh pastry, tray size: 27x27cm 250g fresh cheese, 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons of sugar, grated lemon and orange zest, vanilla, one egg for brushing.