Blueberry and Cottage Cheese Pie

Blueberry and cottage cheese pie is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the sweetness of fresh blueberries with the creamy texture of cottage cheese. This pie is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or special occasion. With its flaky crust and vibrant filling, this pie will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To prepare blueberry and cottage cheese pie, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the Pie Crust:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)

• For the Filling:

  • 2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
  • 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (drained)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
   • Form the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

3. Make the Filling:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and well combined.
   • Gently fold in the fresh blueberries. If using frozen blueberries, be careful not to overmix to avoid breaking them apart.

4. Roll Out the Dough:

   • On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit your pie pan. Transfer the rolled dough to the pan and trim any excess hanging over the edges.

5. Assemble the Pie:

   • Pour the cottage cheese and blueberry filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
   • If desired, create a lattice top using remaining dough. Cut strips of dough and weave them over the filling, trimming any excess dough.

6. Bake the Pie:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
   • If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.

7. Cool and Serve:

   • Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional blueberries or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Using Frozen Blueberries:

  • If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding to the filling, as this can release excess moisture.

• Sweetness Adjustments:

  • Taste the filling before baking and adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your blueberries. Fresh berries can vary in sweetness.

• Flavor Enhancements:

  • Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for added warmth and depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish Ideas:

  • Serve slices of the pie with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, fresh mint leaves, or a drizzle of honey for added visual appeal and flavor.

• Accompaniments:

  • This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making it a perfect dessert for any gathering.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat slices in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crust's flakiness.

lueberry and Cottage Cheese Pie: Additional Tips and Serving Suggestions

Blueberry and cottage cheese pie is not only delicious but also a versatile dessert that can be adapted in many ways. Here are some additional insights and variations to enhance your experience with this delightful pie.

Seasonal Variations

• Seasonal Fruits:

  • While blueberries are the star of this recipe, consider incorporating other seasonal fruits. Cherries, raspberries, or even diced peaches can add different flavors and textures to the filling.

• Nutty Crust:

  • For a unique twist, try adding ground nuts like almonds or walnuts to the pie crust. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a delightful crunch.

Flavor Enhancements

• Citrus Zest:

  • Adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the filling can brighten the flavor and add a refreshing note. The citrus will complement the sweetness of the blueberries beautifully.

• Herbs:

  • Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint mixed into the filling for a surprising flavor twist. These herbs can add a unique and aromatic quality to your pie.

Conclusion

Blueberry and cottage cheese pie is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines flavors and textures. With its creamy filling and flaky crust, it’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. This recipe is simple yet impressive, allowing you to enjoy the wonderful taste of fresh blueberries in a deliciously unique way. Try this recipe today, and savor every bite!