Cherry Delight Shortcrust Pastry with Cheese and Cherry Filling is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the tartness of cherries with a creamy cheese filling, all nestled in a buttery shortcrust base. This dessert is not only delicious but also has a homemade charm that makes it a wonderful choice for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Whether you’re a baking pro or just starting, this recipe will guide you through creating a buttery pastry that melts in your mouth, complemented by the sweet and slightly tangy cherry topping.
What You’ll Need for Cherry Delight
To whip up this scrumptious dessert, gather the following ingredients:
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For the Shortcrust Pastry:
- Flour: 250 g (2 cups)
- Sugar: 50 g (1/4 cup)
- Pinch of salt
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Cold butter: 100 g (7 tbsp)
- Egg: 1 pc
- Sour cream: 2 tbsp
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For the Cheese Filling:
- Sour milk cheese: 400 g (14 oz)
- Eggs: 2 pcs
- Sugar: 130 g (2/3 cup)
- Sour cream: 150 g (2/3 cup)
- Vanilla sugar: 1 tsp (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- Starch: 20 g (2 tbsp)
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For the Cherry Filling:
- Cherries (pitted): 400 g (about 4 cups)
- Sugar: 60 g (1/4 cup)
- Starch: 15 g (1 tbsp)
Step-by-Step Cherry Delight Recipe
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Make the Pastry: Start by sifting the flour into a large mixing bowl. Add sugar, a pinch of salt, and baking powder, then mix the dry ingredients quickly.
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Incorporate Butter: Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add them to the flour mixture. Using your fingers, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and sour cream into the mixture. Keep working quickly to form a soft ball of dough. If it feels too dry, mix in a touch more sour cream.
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Prepare the Pan: Line a 21 cm (8-inch) diameter pan with parchment paper. There’s no need to grease it. Transfer the dough and press it evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
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Chill the Dough: Place the pastry base in the fridge while preparing the filling.
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Make the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the sour milk cheese, eggs, sugar, sour cream, a hint of vanilla, and starch. Beat until smooth and creamy.
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Assemble the Pie: Take the chilled dough from the fridge and pour in the cheese filling, leveling it out with a spatula.
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Bake the Pie: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the cheese filling is set and lightly golden.
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Prepare the Cherry Topping: In a saucepan over low heat, mix the pitted cherries, sugar, and starch. Stir gently until the mixture thickens.
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Finish the Dessert: Once the pie is baked, spread the warm cherry filling over the cheese layer. Let it cool completely before refrigerating for a few hours to set nicely.
How to Serve Cherry Delight
When it’s time to serve, slice the Cherry Delight into generous pieces. You can enjoy it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream on the side. For an extra touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a beautiful presentation. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent afternoon snack or a sweet end to your dinner.
Recipe Tips & Variations
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Fruit Variations: While cherries are delightful, feel free to substitute with other fruits like blueberries or mixed berries for a different flavor profile.
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Make It Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the filling, along with coconut cream instead of sour cream to cater to dietary preferences.
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Storage: Keep any leftovers covered in the fridge. It stays delicious for up to 3 days, but I doubt it will last that long!
Cherry Delight FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well, but be sure to thaw them beforehand and drain any excess liquid before cooking.
How do I know when the cheese filling is done baking?
The filling should look set and have a slight wiggle in the center when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up as it cools.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese filling and store it in the fridge for up to a day before assembling the pie.
Creating your own Cherry Delight Shortcrust Pastry with Cheese and Cherry Filling is a rewarding experience that’s sure to impress family and friends. With this straightforward recipe, you’ll find that baking can be both fun and satisfying. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this delightful dessert!