Baked Cottage Cheese Delight with Berry Sauce

This delightful baked dish combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the sweetness of raisins, creating a comforting treat that's perfect for any occasion. With its delicate hint of vanilla and fluffy consistency, this dessert-like casserole pairs wonderfully with a tangy berry sauce. It's a nostalgic favorite that brings back memories of cozy family gatherings. The preparation involves a simple blending and mixing process, and the result is a light, airy cake that melts in your mouth. Ideal for those who appreciate rustic, homemade desserts, this baked delight is versatile enough to be served warm or chilled. It can easily become a staple in your dessert repertoire. The subtle sweetness of the cottage cheese mixture balances perfectly with the tartness of the berry sauce, making it a well-rounded dessert. This dish is not only satisfying and delicious but also rich in protein and calcium, making it a nutritious option for those looking to indulge without guilt. Whether you serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with a refreshing berry sauce, it promises to be a hit among family and friends.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

600 g cottage cheese
150 g raisins
100 g sugar
4 eggs
4 tablespoons semolina
1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional)
1 pinch of salt
Butter

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Preparation of Cottage Cheese: Begin by blending the cottage cheese to achieve a smooth consistency. For a grainier texture, you can crush it gently with a spoon instead. This step is optional and depends on your taste preference.
Raisin Preparation: Wash the raisins in warm water and spread them on a towel to dry. Ensuring they are dry will prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake's texture.
Egg Separation and Whipping: Carefully separate the egg yolks from the whites. Whip the yolks together with the sugar until the mixture is light and creamy.
Combining Ingredients: Fold the whipped yolks into the cottage cheese mixture and mix until well combined for a uniform texture.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the semolina. Add baking powder if desired, though it's not necessary. Sprinkle in the raisins and gently fold everything together.
Whipping Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the main mixture to ensure a fluffy texture.
Preparing the Baking Form: Grease a baking dish with butter and lightly dust with semolina or flour to prevent sticking.
Pouring the Mixture: Pour the prepared batter into the baking dish. Add small pieces of butter on top to create a golden crust.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Bake the mixture for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted.
Serving: Serve warm with a drizzle of cranberry or lingonberry sauce. The tartness of the sauce complements the sweetness of the dish beautifully.

Tips

Egg Whites: For a fluffier result, ensure the egg whites are whipped separately.
Baking Powder: Choose to add or omit baking powder based on your preference for texture.
Sauce Pairing: While a berry sauce is recommended, the dish can also be enjoyed plainly for a different taste experience.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute semolina with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with a plant-based alternative like flaxseed and use vegan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a refreshing green salad for a light meal.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for added aroma.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.

Best Places

Café Central - Renowned for its rich pastries and delightful cottage cheese desserts. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Pastelería Escribà - Famous for its innovative takes on classic desserts, including cottage cheese fantasies. Location: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 546, Barcelona, Spain.
Café Pushkin - Offers a nostalgic dining experience with traditional Eastern European desserts. Location: Tverskoy Blvd, 26А, Moscow, Russia.
Mio Gelato & Café - Known for its fabulous dessert pairings with berry sauces. Location: Dunaszigeti út 2, Győr, Hungary.
Maison Bertaux - London's oldest patisserie, excelling in classic European confections. Location: 28 Greek St, Soho, London, UK.
Aida Café - Enjoy timeless classics in this traditional Viennese café. Location: Wollzeile 27A, Vienna, Austria.
La Boulangerie - French café specializing in baked goodies with new twists on old favorites. Location: 123 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Thomas, Paris, France.
Sacher Café - Family-oriented and known for their iconic desserts, complementing any main dish. Location: Philharmonikerstrasse 4, Salzburg, Austria.
Café Sperl - Beloved for its vintage charm and traditional bakes. Location: Gumpendorfer Str. 11, Vienna, Austria.
Café de la Terrasse - Spectacular views alongside delicious desserts make this a memorable visit. Location: Rue Ideealplatz 23, Zurich, Switzerland.