Classic Cottage Cheese Pie
This Cottage Cheese Pie is a deliciously creamy dessert that combines the light, custard-like texture of cottage cheese with a buttery, flaky crust. With hints of lemon zest and vanilla, this pie offers a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Whether served as a dessert, breakfast treat, or afternoon snack, this easy-to-make pie is a delightful addition to any table.
Equipment
- 9-inch pie plate
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor (for crust)
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter chilled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese chilled
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Alternatively, use a pre-made graham cracker crust for convenience.
- For the Filling:
- 2 cups small-curd cottage cheese full-fat for best texture
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Optional: ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth.
Instructions
- tep 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a food processor, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Add chilled butter and cream cheese, pulsing until the mixture forms small pea-sized crumbles.
- Drizzle in vinegar and heavy cream, blending until the dough pulls together.
- Shape the dough into a flat disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 2 hours.
- Press the dough into a 9-inch pie plate, forming an even crust. (If using a graham cracker crust, skip this step.)
- Step 2: Make the Filling
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add cottage cheese, heavy cream, flour, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
- Step 3: Bake the Pie
- Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 15 minutes before serving.
- Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled, topped with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Notes
For a gluten-free version: Use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix for the crust.
For a lower-fat option: Use low-fat cottage cheese and replace heavy cream with evaporated milk.
For extra texture: Add raisins, chopped nuts, or a streusel topping before baking.
Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
For a lower-fat option: Use low-fat cottage cheese and replace heavy cream with evaporated milk.
For extra texture: Add raisins, chopped nuts, or a streusel topping before baking.
Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.