Delicious Cottage Cheese Bake with Dried Fruits

This delightful baked dish combines creamy cottage cheese with the natural sweetness of dried fruits, creating a scrumptious and nourishing dessert. Ideal for a cozy family evening or a special occasion, this cottage cheese bake offers a comforting and versatile option for those who enjoy a sweet treat without feeling guilty. The lightness of the cottage cheese pairs wonderfully with the chewy textures and sweet flavors of dried fruits like raisins, apricots, plums, or figs. This recipe is easy to prepare and doesn't require any elaborate cooking skills, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures they blend together harmoniously to create a rich yet delicate flavor profile. The bake is also a fantastic way to use any leftover cottage cheese or dried fruits you might have. You can enjoy it freshly baked or even chilled, as its taste matures beautifully with time. Whether you decide to serve it as a dessert, snack, or sliced for breakfast, this cottage cheese bake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it today and indulge in the wholesome goodness it offers!

Ingredients

Main ingredients:

• 600 g cottage cheese
• 100 g sugar
• 75 g butter
• 50 g flour or semolina
• 6 eggs
• Dried fruits: raisins, apricots, plums, or figs (or a mix of dried fruits)

Preparation Time

• Total time: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) to ensure it's ready for baking. This temperature is ideal for achieving a well-cooked and evenly browned crust.
2. Separate the eggs, placing the yolks in one bowl and the whites in another. This separation is crucial for creating the ideal texture of the bake.
3. Cream the butter with half of the sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air, leading to a lighter texture in the final bake.
4. Add egg yolks gradually to the butter and sugar mix, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth and well-combined mixture.
5. Beat the egg whites with the remaining sugar until they form stiff peaks. This will lend the bake a delicate structure and prevent it from becoming too dense.
6. Pass the cottage cheese through a sieve. This step ensures the cheese is smooth and free of any lumpiness, contributing to the bake's creamy texture.
7. Gently fold the egg white mixture into the butter and egg yolk blend. This step should be done carefully to maintain the light and airy texture.
8. Incorporate the sieved cottage cheese into the egg mixture, stirring gently until well combined.
9. Add flour or semolina, mixing just until the flour is fully combined, ensuring not to overwork the batter.
10. Fold in your selection of dried fruits. Ensure they're evenly distributed throughout the mix for uniform flavor.
11. Prepare a baking dish, greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
12. Pour the batter into the baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
14. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean if the bake is done.
15. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
16. Serve with a fruit sauce or enjoy it plain for a simple dessert. A berry compote would complement the sweetness of the bake beautifully.
17. For an extra texture boost, consider lightly toasting some nuts to sprinkle over the top before serving.
18. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to enjoy over the next few days.
19. Optional: Dust with a bit of powdered sugar before serving for a decorative finish.
20. Remember to let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain the ideal texture.

Tips

• Soft Butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature before use.
• Mix of Fruits: Try using a combination of dried fruits for varied flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free version.
• Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest for a fresh flavor.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 10g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 22g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with chia seeds (1 tablespoon chia seeds + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a dairy-free cottage cheese.
• Nut Lovers: Add crushed walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
• Tropical Twist: Use chopped dried mangoes or pineapple for a tropical flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee.

Best Places

• Magnolia Bakery - Known for its delicious desserts and quaint setting. Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, USA.
• The Cheesecake Factory - Offers a wide selection of baked goods with a famous cheesecake menu. Location: 11602 Carmel Mountain Rd, San Diego, USA.
• Pudding Club - Specializes in a variety of baked puddings and desserts. Location: Three Ways House Hotel, Chipping Campden, UK.
• Flour Bakery - Renowned for its homemade baked goods and friendly ambiance. Location: 131 Clarendon St, Boston, USA.
• Ladurée - A luxury bakery known for exquisite pastries and desserts. Location: 16-18 rue Royale, Paris, France.
• Tartine Bakery - Offers a farm-to-table concept with freshly baked goods. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
• Conditori La Glace - Denmark's oldest patisserie, known for traditional Danish pastries. Location: Skoubogade 3, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Balthazar Bakery - Provides classic French pastries inspired by traditional recipes. Location: 80 Spring St, New York, USA.
• The Hummingbird Bakery - Famous for American-style bakery products in the UK. Location: 47 Old Brompton Rd, London, UK.
• Andersen Bakery - Known for its Danish pastries and innovative baking techniques. Location: 60 Shijo Minami-iru, Kyoto, Japan.