Cheese Pie

Cheese Pie – A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Who doesn’t love a warm slice of cheese pie? This classic recipe is a perfect combination of flavors, textures, and sweetness that will transport you back in time to family gatherings, where pies were lovingly made. Whether you serve it as a dessert at a festive meal or as a delicious snack, cheese pie is always a winning choice.

The necessary ingredients are simple and easy to find, making this recipe ideal for any cook, from beginners to experienced ones. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 220 g lard (or 300 g margarine)
- 1 cube of yeast (about 25 g)
- 4 eggs (2 yolks for the dough and 2 whites for the filling)
- 100 ml warm milk
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon of sugar

Ingredients for the filling:
- 600 g cheese (preferably cottage cheese or telemea)
- 260 g sugar (you can adjust according to taste)
- Grated zest of one lemon (to taste)
- 100 g semolina (to absorb excess moisture, especially if the cheese is wetter)
- 2 sachets of vanilla sugar
- Raisins (optional, to taste)

Step by Step Preparation:

1. Activating the yeast:
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the yeast with 100 ml of warm milk and a tablespoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step, as the activated yeast will help the dough rise beautifully.

2. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, sift the flour and add a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center, where you will add the 2 yolks, the diced lard (or margarine), and the yeast mixture. Use your fingers to combine the ingredients, then start kneading the dough. Kneading is essential to develop the gluten, which will give the dough a pleasant texture.

3. Let the dough rise:
Once the dough is well kneaded, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise for about 20 minutes in a warm place. During this time, the dough should double in volume.

4. Preparing the filling:
In a separate bowl, mix the cheese with the sugar, lemon zest, semolina, vanilla sugar, and the 2 beaten egg whites. If desired, you can also add raisins for extra flavor. Make sure the mixture is well combined.

5. Assembling the pie:
After the dough has risen, divide it into two parts: 2/3 for the bottom of the pie and 1/3 for the top layer. Use a rolling pin to roll out the larger portion of dough into a thin sheet and place it in a greased and floured baking dish.

6. Adding the filling:
Pour the cheese mixture over the dough base in the dish, spreading it evenly across the surface. Then, roll out the remaining dough, which you can grate over the filling to create a decorative effect.

7. Baking the pie:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the pie for about 25 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the enticing aroma that fills the house.

8. Finishing and serving:
Once the pie has cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. Serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a cup of Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Practical Tips:
- Make sure the cheese is well-drained to avoid a too-wet filling.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or ricotta, for a different flavor.
- If you don’t have raisins, you can add pieces of dried fruit or chopped nuts for added texture.

Nutritional Benefits:
This cheese pie provides protein from the cheese and eggs, carbohydrates from the flour and wheat, and healthy fats from the lard or margarine. It’s a good choice for a dessert that offers energy, but should be consumed in moderation due to its sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use soy cheese for a vegan version?
Answer: Yes, you can use soy cheese or other plant-based alternatives, but make sure to adjust the amounts of sugar and other ingredients.

- How can I keep the pie fresh longer?
Answer: Store the pie in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. You can also freeze it for a longer duration.

- What other recipes or drinks can be paired with cheese pie?
Answer: It’s delicious alongside a fragrant tea, a sweet wine, or even a fruit smoothie. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a pleasant contrast.

Personal Note:
This cheese pie reminds me of evenings spent around the table, where every dish was made with love. Every bite brings back the warmth and family traditions. I wish you to enjoy every moment spent cooking and savoring this delicacy! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: -500 g flour -220 g lard or (300 g margarine) -1 cube of yeast -4 eggs -600 g cheese -260 g sugar -100 ml milk -a pinch of salt -1 lemon -raisins (optional) -2 sachets of vanilla sugar -100 g semolina