Cottage cheese cake

Cottage Cheese Cake: A Sweet and Refreshing Indulgence

Cottage cheese cake is a classic dessert that combines the delicacy of cheese with the aroma of fruits and the fluffy texture of the sponge. Perfect for warm days or any special occasion, this cake is a true treat. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step, providing useful tips and information about the ingredients to help you achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Cooling time: at least 3 hours
Number of servings: 10-12

Necessary ingredients

For the sponge:
- 6 fresh eggs
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 7 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt

For the cream:
- 500 g cottage cheese (preferably high quality)
- 250 g sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 100 g golden raisins
- 1 teaspoon grated orange peel
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
- 20 g gelatin granules
- 200 ml white wine (a flavorful but not overly sweet wine)
- 1 fruit compote (you can choose your favorite)
- 3 tablespoons of rum

For decoration:
- 200 ml liquid cream
- Candied cherries (or other candied fruits, as preferred)

Preparing the sponge

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Meanwhile, prepare a rectangular baking pan (35 x 24 cm) or a round cake pan (28 cm diameter) greased with butter and lined with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, add the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt, then mix at high speed for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes light in color and doubles in volume. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy sponge.

3. Sift the flour together with the baking powder over the egg mixture. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon and gently fold in the flour using up-and-down motions to avoid losing air from the mixture.

4. Pour the obtained mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface with the back of a spoon. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Do the toothpick test: if the toothpick comes out clean, the sponge is ready.

5. After baking, remove the sponge from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack until completely cool.

6. Once cooled, cut the sponge horizontally into two equal parts.

Soak the sponge

7. Use the juice from the fruit compote to soak both halves of the sponge. This will add moisture and flavor.

Preparing the cream

8. In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the sugar, vanilla sugar, orange peel, and lemon peel. Use a mixer to thoroughly blend the ingredients. High-quality cottage cheese will provide a smoother and tastier cream.

9. Soak the golden raisins in rum for about 20 minutes, then drain well. Add them to the cheese cream.

10. In a small saucepan, heat the wine until just below boiling point. Add the gelatin, which has been previously hydrated in cold water for 10 minutes, and stir until completely dissolved. Allow it to cool slightly, then incorporate it into the cheese cream.

11. Mix all the ingredients well until the cream is smooth. This is the base of your delicious cottage cheese cake.

Assembling the cake

12. Place the first half of the sponge on a serving platter. Pour half of the cheese cream on top and level it with a spatula.

13. Place the second half of the sponge on top and pour the remaining cream. Level again for a few minutes.

14. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, ideally overnight, to set well.

Decorating and serving

15. Before serving, whip the liquid cream until you achieve stiff peaks. Cover the cake with the whipped cream, using a spatula or a pastry knife to create a smooth appearance.

16. Decorate the cake with candied cherries and, if desired, with colorful sugar balls or other candied fruits for a cheerful and attractive look.

17. Cut the cake into slices and enjoy it with a cup of mint tea or fresh lemonade. This dessert is perfect for serving at festive occasions, picnics, or simply to indulge after a long day.

Tips and variations

- If you want to add a chocolate note to the cake, add a few tablespoons of cocoa to the cheese cream.
- You can replace the raisins with other dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots.
- For a cake with a more exotic flavor, try adding a few drops of almond essence to the cheese cream.

Nutritional benefits

Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, making it a nutritious ingredient for your desserts. Additionally, raisins add fiber and antioxidants, while the fruit juice from the compote provides essential vitamins. It is a relatively low-calorie dessert, making it a good choice for those who want to enjoy something sweet without compromising their diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sweetened cottage cheese?
It is recommended to use natural cottage cheese to control the sugar intake of the cake.

2. How can I tell if the cake is done in the oven?
The toothpick test is the simplest method; if the toothpick comes out clean, the sponge is ready.

3. Is it possible to freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to freeze it without whipped cream. Decorate it after thawing.

4. What type of wine should I use?
Choose a flavorful white wine, but not too sweet, to complement the other flavors of the cake.

This cottage cheese cake is not only easy to prepare but also delicious and refreshing, perfect for enjoying in the company of loved ones. I invite you to try it and enjoy every slice!

 Ingredients: Base: 6 eggs, 7 tablespoons sugar, 7 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, a pinch of salt. Cream: 500 g cottage cheese, 250 g sugar, 2 packets vanilla sugar, 100 g golden raisins, 1 teaspoon grated orange peel, 2 teaspoons grated lemon peel, 20 g gelatin granules, 200 ml white wine, 1 fruit compote, 3 tablespoons rum. Decoration: 200 ml liquid cream, candied cherries.

 Tags:  cake cottage cheese