Easter pudding with cheese and cranberry

Pasta pudding with cheese and cranberries - a surprising and delicious combination!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Introduction

Who would have thought that pasta could be transformed into a dessert? Pasta pudding with cheese and cranberries is an innovative recipe that combines the soft texture of pasta with the creaminess of cheese and the sweet-tart flavor of candied cranberries. This recipe, with deep roots in traditional cuisine, has been reinvented over time, and today I invite you to discover it in its modern version.

Ingredients – important details

To achieve a perfect pudding, the ingredients are essential. Here’s what you will need:

- 500 g penne pasta (you can use other types of pasta, but penne holds the sauce better)
- 500 g sweet telemea cheese (choose a quality cheese with a creamy texture)
- 250 g mascarpone (this will add a fine and rich note)
- 100 g cream cheese (optional, for a more intense flavor)
- 100 g sour cream (make sure it is well drained)
- 250 g candied cranberries (you can substitute with raisins or candied cherries, if you prefer)
- 8 eggs (use fresh eggs for better texture)
- 300 g granulated sugar (adjustable according to preferences)
- 100 g powdered sugar (to sweeten the cream cheese)
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar (for a wonderful flavor)
- 10 ml vanilla essence (optional, but recommended)
- Zest of one large lemon (for an extra touch of freshness)
- Baking paper (to prevent sticking)

Step by step – preparation guide

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes. Taste them to ensure they are al dente. After cooking, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the cheese: Grate the sweet telemea cheese on a fine grater. The fine texture will help it integrate better into the mixture.

3. Beat the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs using a whisk or mixer until fluffy. Add the granulated sugar and two packets of vanilla sugar. Continue beating for about 3 minutes, until the mixture becomes airy and light in color.

4. Add the flavors: To the egg mixture, incorporate the vanilla essence, grated lemon zest, candied cranberries, and grated telemea cheese. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

5. Prepare the cream cheese: In another bowl, mix the cream cheese, mascarpone, sour cream, powdered sugar, one packet of vanilla sugar, and lemon zest. Use a mixer to achieve a smooth and homogeneous mixture.

6. Assemble the pudding: In a deep baking dish, place the baking paper. Add the pasta mixture with cheese and cranberries, leveling it well. Pour the cream cheese mixture with mascarpone over this mixture, smoothing it with a spatula.

7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 170-180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the pudding becomes golden and firm to the touch.

8. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the pudding cool for 10-15 minutes before cutting. It is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a berry sauce or a dollop of sour cream.

Practical tips

- Choose quality pasta: Whole grain or durum wheat pasta has a better taste and is healthier.
- Cheese: If you prefer a less salty pudding, opt for cottage cheese or ricotta.
- Candied cranberries: They bring a pleasant contrast between sweet and tart. If you can’t find them, raisins or candied blueberries are excellent alternatives.
- Vegan option: You can replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water, and the cheese with soft tofu mixed with a bit of lemon and nutritional yeast for a savory taste.

Nutritional benefits

This pasta pudding recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cheese provides protein and calcium, while cranberries are rich in antioxidants. It is an excellent option for a dessert that satisfies the sweet tooth without being overly caloric.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, rice or quinoa pasta are excellent options for a gluten-free diet.

- How can I store the pudding?
Keep the pudding in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be consumed within 3-4 days.

- Is it suitable for children?
Absolutely! It is an appealing dessert for children, given the combination of flavors and textures.

Delicious pairings

Pasta pudding with cheese and cranberries pairs perfectly with a vanilla sauce or vanilla ice cream. Additionally, a sweet white wine can beautifully complement this dessert, bringing a pleasant contrast.

Conclusion

Enjoy this simple and innovative recipe for pasta pudding with cheese and cranberries. It is an excellent option for a festive meal or a weekend dessert that will surely impress everyone. Experiment with different ingredients and variations to find the perfect combination for your taste! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g penne pasta, 500 g sweet telemea cheese, 250 g mascarpone, 100 g cream cheese, 100 g sour cream, 250 g candied cranberries, 8 pcs eggs, 300 g granulated sugar, 100 g powdered sugar, 3 packets of vanilla sugar, 10 ml vanilla essence, zest of one large lemon, baking paper.