Warm holiday seasons call for comforting baked goodies that fill the home with festive aromas and memories. Today, we’re delving into the delightful world of Russian Christmas baking with a recipe for Tvorog Belyy Pirog, a traditional White Cheese Pie that is sure to become a beloved addition to your holiday table. This scrumptious pie features a creamy filling surrounded by a tender, buttery crust, making it a perfect treat to share with family and friends during the holiday season.
**Tvorog Belyy Pirog White Cheese Pie**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
– 1/4 cup sugar
– Pinch of salt
– 2 cups farmer’s cheese or ricotta cheese
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, diced butter.
– Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
– Add 1-2 tablespoons of cold water as needed, and knead the dough until it comes together. Shape it into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Make the Filling:**
– In a separate bowl, mix together the farmer’s cheese (or ricotta), eggs, sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. **Assemble the Pie:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
– Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface to fit the pie dish.
– Gently press the dough into the pie dish, making sure it covers the bottom and sides evenly.
– Pour the cheese filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
4. **Bake the Pie:**
– Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
– Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Dust the top of the pie with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
– Slice the Tvorog Belyy Pirog into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.
– This White Cheese Pie is perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon teas, or whenever you crave a comforting, sweet treat.
So, next time you’re looking to add a taste of Russian holiday tradition to your baking repertoire, give this Tvorog Belyy Pirog a try. With its velvety cheese filling and buttery crust, it’s a delightful pastry that brings warmth and joy to any festive occasion. Invite your loved ones to savor a slice of this delicious pie, and watch as it becomes a cherished part of your holiday celebrations. Happy baking!
