Cheese and apple pie

Cheese and Apple Cake - a delicacy that combines the sweetness of apples with the creaminess of cheese, offering a perfect culinary experience. This recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether you want to treat your family to a simple dessert or impress your guests with a special dish.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes (20 minutes of preparation + 40 minutes in the oven + 10 minutes for cooling)
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients
- 2 large apples (approximately 300g each)
- 500g cottage cheese (or ricotta for a smoother texture)
- 100ml milk (preferably whole milk for a rich flavor)
- 4 large eggs (preferably from free-range hens)
- 100g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a deeper taste)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 50g raisins (soaked in rum for extra flavor)
- 3 tablespoons of semolina (helps bind the mixture)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Raisins
Start by soaking the raisins. Place them in a small bowl and add warm water with a little rum (about 2-3 tablespoons). Let them soak for 15-20 minutes, the raisins will become soft and absorb the rum flavor, adding a delicious taste to the cake.

Step 2: Preparing the Apples
Once the raisins are soaked, prepare the apples. Wash them well, peel them (if you prefer), and slice them thinly. These will form the base of the cake, bringing a sweet and sour note.

Step 3: Preparing the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the sugar and eggs, mixing well with a whisk or fork. Then add the milk, vanilla sugar, semolina, and soaked raisins. Mix everything until you get a smooth composition. Make sure there are no lumps of cheese.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake
In a baking pan, place parchment paper to facilitate removing the cake. Evenly distribute the apple slices on the bottom of the pan, forming a uniform layer. Then pour the cheese mixture over the apples, ensuring it is well covered.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the cake is golden and firm to the touch. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 30 minutes to prevent the temperature from dropping.

Step 6: Cooling and Serving
After the cake is baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a cooling rack to cool completely. Before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance and a sweet taste.

Practical Tips
- Choosing Apples: For a balanced taste, choose sweet-sour apples, such as Granny Smith or Fuji. Their texture will hold up well during baking.
- Cheese: Choose a high-quality, fresh cheese without additives for the best results. Ricotta brings a finer texture.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based cheese and almond or soy milk, and instead of eggs, you can use a mixture of 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water.
- Garnish: Serve the cake with a dollop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream for a contrast of textures and flavors.
- Storage: The cake keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap. You can reheat it in the microwave to restore its soft texture.

Nutritional Benefits
This cake is rich in protein due to the cheese and eggs, and the apples provide vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It is a dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Yes, you can experiment with pears, peaches, or cherries, adjusting the baking time according to the chosen fruits.
- What is the best way to serve it? This cake pairs perfectly with tea or coffee, but can also be enjoyed with a glass of sweet wine.
- How can I enhance the flavor? Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheese mixture for a warm and comforting aroma.

With this cheese and apple cake recipe, you will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones, turning an ordinary meal into a memorable experience. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with your friends and let yourself be inspired by the magic of cooking!