Lithuanian Apple Cheese Tart

Ingredients

• For the crust: For the crust:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg yolk 1 large egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons ice water 2-3 tablespoons ice water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 2 cups (500g) cottage cheese 2 cups (500g) cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the topping: For the topping:
• 2-3 medium-sized apples, thinly sliced 2-3 medium-sized apples, thinly sliced

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 18g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt for the crust. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of ice water. Gradually add the egg mixture to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. If needed, add an additional tablespoon of ice water.
3. 3.
   Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
5. 5.
   In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract for the filling. Mix until well combined and smooth.
6. 6.
   Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan, trimming any excess.
7. 7.
   Pour the cheese filling into the prepared crust and spread it evenly.
8. 8.
   Arrange the thinly sliced apples on top of the filling in an attractive pattern.
9. 9.
   Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cottage cheese — Make sure to use cottage cheese with a smooth and creamy texture for the filling. If the cottage cheese is too watery, drain it before using.
• Apples — Choose firm and slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Braeburn for the topping. Thinly slice them for an even distribution of flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the apple slices before baking.
• Serve the tart warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can increase the amount of sugar in the cheese filling to your taste.
• Make sure to let the tart cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.
• Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Lithuanian Apple Cheese Tart as a delightful dessert after a hearty Lithuanian meal. Cut it into wedges and garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can drizzle a caramel sauce or sprinkle some chopped nuts over the tart before serving. This will add a touch of elegance and additional texture to the dessert.