Baked Cottage Cheese Dessert with Raisins

This delightful baked cottage cheese dessert with raisins is a traditional treat known for its creamy texture and bursts of raisin sweetness. It is a classic dish with Eastern European origins, especially popular in Latvia, where such cheese-based dishes are a staple in home cooking. With its simple ingredients and comforting flavors, this recipe is perfect for a cozy family gathering or any occasion where you crave a taste of home baking.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 g cottage cheese
100 g raisins
100 g sour cream
3 eggs
250 g sugar
20 g semolina

Other Ingredients

20 g butter
1 pinch of salt
Water

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 60 minutes

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Raisins: Soak the raisins in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Drain and rinse them under running water. Allow them to dry by spreading them on a paper towel.
Separate the Eggs: Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks.
Beat the Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This will help make the dessert fluffy.
Mix the Base: In another bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, and egg yolks. Stir together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Add Sweetness: Gradually incorporate the sugar into the cottage cheese mixture, mixing well until fully dissolved.
Incorporate Other Ingredients: Add a pinch of salt and the prepared raisins to the mixture. Stir until evenly combined.
Fold in the Egg Whites: Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the cottage cheese mixture. This is crucial for a light texture; be gentle to avoid deflating the whites.
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) to warm up.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter. Sprinkle semolina across the base of the dish to prevent sticking.
Pour the Mixture: Pour the mixed ingredients into your prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake the Dessert: Place it in the oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes. The top should turn a beautiful golden color when done.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the dessert to cool slightly before cutting. It can be served warm or at room temperature.

Tips

Substitutions: Substitute semolina with breadcrumbs for a different texture.
Adding Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can complement the flavors beautifully.
Texture: For a smoother consistency, consider blending the cottage cheese before mixing.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 460 kcal per serving
Protein: 12 g
Fats: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g

Variations

Gluten-Free: Replace semolina with almond meal to make the dish gluten-free.
Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and egg replacer for a vegan-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with: Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
Beverage: Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee.

Best Places

Riga Café - Authentic Latvian dishes in a cozy setting. Location: Krišjāņa Barona iela 12, Riga, Latvia.
Cottage Delights - Specializes in cheese-based desserts. Location: 45 Queen St, London, UK.
Sweet Cheese - Famous for its creamy desserts. Location: Nevsky Prospect 60, St. Petersburg, Russia.
Eastern Treats - Offers traditional Eastern European pastries. Location: 1001 Brickell Bay Dr, Miami, USA.
Euro Bakehouse - Known for authentic cottage cheese bakes. Location: Kaerntner Strasse 19, Vienna, Austria.
Baltic Bakery - Offers homestyle cheese dishes. Location: Vabaduse Blvd 10, Tallinn, Estonia.
Taste of Home - Classic comforts from Eastern Europe. Location: 950 Lexington Ave, New York, USA.
Cheese Spot - Wide variety of cheese desserts. Location: Yamatecho 100, Yokohama, Japan.
Cottage Cafeteria - Quaint café with a rustic feel. Location: 55 High Street, Dublin, Ireland.
Raisinland – Specializes in fruity, cheese desserts. Location: Rue de Rivoli 189, Paris, France.