Sweet cheese cake
Sweet cheese cake, just like at home
Who doesn't remember the enticing aromas of childhood, when homemade cakes filled the atmosphere with a scent of joy and warmth? The sweet cheese cake is one of those recipes that takes us back in time, evoking cherished memories and moments spent with loved ones. This cake is not just a delicacy but also a story about the love for cooking and tradition.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 150 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 4-5 tablespoons sour cream (ideally use full-fat sour cream for a softer dough)
For the filling:
- 750 g sweet cottage cheese (preferably well-drained)
- 12 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Zest of one lemon (for a fresh taste)
- Rum essence (a few drops)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 3 eggs
- 100 g raisins (soaked in rum for extra flavor)
Preparation
1. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. Add the margarine (or butter cut into cubes) and knead with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. This step is essential for achieving a light texture of the dough.
2. Adding wet ingredients
Incorporate the powdered sugar, egg, and sour cream. Knead well until homogeneous. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If necessary, add an extra tablespoon of sour cream. Form a ball from the dough, divide it into two equal parts, cover them with plastic wrap, and let them chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out later.
3. Preparing the filling
In another bowl, mix the sweet cottage cheese (make sure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture), granulated sugar, lemon zest, rum essence, vanilla sugar, sour cream, and eggs. Use a mixer or a fork to achieve a homogeneous mixture, but do not overmix to avoid making it too liquid. Finally, add the raisins and mix gently.
4. Assembling the cake
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (season with a little sunflower oil on the tray or use baking paper). Take one part of the dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out directly in the lined tray, forming an even base. Add the cheese filling, distributing it evenly.
5. Covering with dough
Roll out the other part of the dough and cover the filling. With a fork, poke holes in the top dough to allow steam to escape during baking. This detail not only helps prevent bubbles from forming but also gives a pleasing aesthetic. Brush the top with a beaten egg for a golden and glossy crust.
6. Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the cake is golden and firm to the touch. It is important not to open the oven in the first 20 minutes to allow the cake to rise evenly.
7. Cooling and serving
After the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant appearance and cut it into generous slices.
Personal tip: This cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a berry sauce for a contrast of flavors.
Possible variations:
- Replace the raisins with dried blueberries or chopped nuts for a different texture and taste.
- You can add a few tablespoons of cocoa to the cheese filling for a chocolate cake version.
Nutritional benefits: This cake contains protein from the cottage cheese, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, and is also a source of calcium. The flour provides carbohydrates for energy, while the sugar adds sweetness. Additionally, the raisins offer fiber and antioxidants.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use ricotta or goat cheese, but make sure to adjust the amount of sugar according to the sweetness of the cheese.
2. 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.
3. What drinks pair well with this cake?
A fruit tea or flavored coffee perfectly complements the sweet cheese cake. Additionally, a semi-dry white wine can add a sophisticated touch.
Memories, traditions, and the joy of cooking are essential in making this cake. Each bite will take you back in time, offering not just a delicious dessert but also a serving of nostalgia. So, grab the ingredients and let yourself be inspired by the sweet memories of childhood! Enjoy!
Ingredients: Dough: 500 g flour, 150 g margarine, 150 g powdered sugar, 1 egg, 1 pinch of baking powder, 4-5 tablespoons sour cream. Filling: 750 g sweet cottage cheese, 12 tablespoons granulated sugar, grated zest of one lemon, rum essence, 2 packets of vanilla sugar, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 3 eggs, 100 g raisins (soaked in rum).
