sweet cheese pie

Sweet cheese cake is a refined dessert that harmoniously combines the fluffy texture of cheese with the delicate aroma of lemon and vanilla. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia, reminding you of the cakes lovingly made in the family. Whether you enjoy it at a gathering with friends or serve it at a special event, this cake is always welcome.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients for the base:
- 400 g flour
- 3 egg yolks
- 250 g butter (at room temperature)
- 5 tablespoons liquid cream
- 100 g sugar
- 4 tablespoons cocoa
- 1 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt

Ingredients for the cream:
- 5 eggs
- 1 kg sweet cheese (preferably cow cheese)
- 100 ml sweet cream
- 150 g yogurt
- 2 packets vanilla pudding
- 75 g sugar
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- 1 egg yolk
- 4 tablespoons liquid cream

Preparation:

1. Clean and prepare the ingredients:
Start by gathering all the ingredients on a work surface. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier incorporation into the dough. You can use well-drained cow cheese to avoid excess water in the cream.

2. Prepare the base:
In a large bowl, add the flour, baking powder, cocoa, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Gently mix the dry ingredients. Add the egg yolks and butter and begin kneading with your hands until you obtain a uniform mixture. Gradually add the liquid cream and continue kneading until the dough becomes homogeneous.

3. Get to work:
Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This process will help firm up the dough and make it easier to roll out.

4. Prepare the cream:
In another bowl, separate the eggs. Beat the egg yolks with the sweet cheese, sweet cream, yogurt, vanilla pudding, sugar, and lemon zest. Ensure the mixture becomes creamy and homogeneous. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt, gradually adding sugar until you obtain a firm meringue. Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the cheese mixture so that it doesn't lose volume.

5. Assemble the cake:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Take 2/3 of the refrigerated dough and spread it evenly in the tray, forming the base of the cake. Pour the cheese cream over the dough and level it with a spatula.

6. Finalize the cake:
Break the remaining dough into small pieces and distribute them evenly over the cream. This will create a rustic look for the cake. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until it turns golden.

7. Glaze the cake:
In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk with the liquid cream. After 40 minutes of baking, take the cake out of the oven and brush it with the egg yolk and cream mixture. Put the cake back in the oven for another 15 minutes to achieve a golden and delicious crust.

8. Cooling and serving:
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray, then remove it and cut it into pieces. It can be served plain or with a berry sauce, which will add a touch of freshness.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of sweet cheese, such as ricotta, for a finer texture.
- If you want a more intense flavor, add a splash of vanilla essence to the cheese cream.
- The cake keeps well in the fridge for a few days, and the taste gets even better as the flavors meld.
- You can serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use cottage cheese instead of sweet cheese?
Yes, but make sure it is well drained to avoid a too-soft cream.

- Is the use of liquid cream necessary?
The cream contributes to creaminess, but you can replace it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

- How can I tell if the cake is baked?
You can test it with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake is a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, and the yogurt adds a boost of probiotics, essential for healthy digestion. However, it is important to consume moderate portions, considering the amount of sugar and fats.

The sweet cheese cake is not just a simple dessert but a culinary experience that blends tradition with the joy of cooking. Each bite will take you back in time, reminding you of moments spent with loved ones. So, put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy this delicious delicacy!

 Ingredients: dough: 400 g flour, 3 egg yolks, 250 g butter, 5 tablespoons liquid cream, 100 g sugar, 4 tablespoons cocoa, 1 packet baking powder, 1 pinch of salt cream: 5 eggs, 1 kg sweet cheese, 100 ml sweet cream, 150 g yogurt, 2 vanilla puddings, 75 g sugar, grated lemon zest, 1 egg yolk, 4 tablespoons liquid cream