Cake with layers and cow cheese
Cheese and Dough Cake: The Simple and Quick Delight
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 12 servings
Welcome to the world of quick desserts, where every bite is an explosion of flavor and aroma! Today, I will present you with a recipe for a cheese and dough cake that is not only quick to prepare but also extremely delicious. It is the perfect choice for those days when time is limited, but the craving for something sweet is high. With a slightly crispy texture on the outside and a creamy, flavorful filling, this cake will surely become a favorite in your home.
A Brief History of Cheese Cakes
Cheese cakes have a long history, being appreciated in various cultures as a tasty and nourishing dessert. Over time, they have evolved into different forms, but the main ingredient - cheese - has remained constant. This simple recipe pays homage to tradition, but with a modern twist, being easy to make and perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 250 g flour
- 80 ml milk (cold)
For the Filling:
- 400 g cottage cheese (preferably well-drained)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 3 whole eggs and 2 egg whites
- 1 teaspoon rum essence
- 100 g raisins (optional, but highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
1. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the soft butter with the egg yolks and sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to achieve a creamy consistency. Add the baking soda mixed with a little vinegar (if you have it) or lemon juice to activate the reaction and achieve a fluffier texture.
2. Incorporating the Flour: Gradually add the sifted flour and mix with a spatula. It is crucial to sift the flour, as this will help achieve a finer and more uniform dough.
3. Adding the Milk: Slowly add the cold milk while constantly mixing. Pay attention to the consistency! The dough should be elastic but not too sticky. If necessary, add a little more flour.
4. Resting the Dough: Once the dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Preparing the Filling
1. Mixing the Cheese: In another bowl, add the well-drained cottage cheese. If needed, you can mash it with a fork to achieve a smoother consistency.
2. Adding the Ingredients: Add the whole eggs, egg whites, sugar, lemon juice and zest, rum essence, and raisins. Mix well until all ingredients are fully integrated and the filling becomes homogeneous.
Step 3: Assembling the Cake
1. Preparing the Baking Dish: Grease a 22/25 cm baking dish with butter to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Rolling Out the Dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out the first sheet as evenly as possible. Transfer it to the prepared dish.
3. Adding the Filling: Prick the first sheet with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming. Add the cheese filling, ensuring it is distributed evenly.
4. Covering with the Second Sheet: Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it over the filling. Prick again with a fork.
Step 4: Baking
1. Preheating the Oven: Preheat the oven to a low temperature (about 160°C). Baking at a lower temperature will allow the cake to bake evenly without burning on the edges.
2. Baking the Cake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is golden and firm to the touch.
3. Cooling and Serving: Once the cake is ready, let it cool in the dish for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Other Flavors: If you want to experiment, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of vanilla extract to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
- Variations: Instead of raisins, you can use cherries or dried apricots for a fresh twist.
- Serving: This cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a scoop of ice cream or with a fresh fruit sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, and by adding eggs, you get an extra amount of essential nutrients. This cake, while delicious, can be considered a healthier choice compared to other desserts, having a moderate sugar and fat content.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use ricotta or goat cheese, but make sure they are well-drained to avoid affecting the cake's consistency.
- How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen. Cut it into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap.
This cheese and dough cake is not only a quick dessert but also a simple recipe that will bring you joy in every bite. So, don’t hesitate to try it and customize it to your taste! Enjoy!
Ingredients: For the dough: 2 egg yolks, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 2 tablespoons sugar, 100g butter, 250g flour, 80ml milk. For the filling: 400g cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, grated lemon zest, 4 tablespoons sugar, 3 eggs + 2 egg whites, 1 teaspoon rum essence.
