Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Add the mixture to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for a few minutes until smooth. Roll out the dough to fit the tart pan and transfer it to the pan. Trim the edges and prick the bottom with a fork.
5. In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
6. Pour the cheese mixture into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
7. Bake the vlaai for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
8. Allow the vlaai to cool completely before removing it from the pan.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 320
Total fat: 20g
Saturated fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 11g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Mascarpone cheese can be used instead of ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.
- Lemon zest or orange zest can be added to the cheese mixture for a citrusy flavor.
Variations:
- Fresh fruit can be added on top of the cheese filling for a fruity twist.
- Cinnamon or nutmeg can be added to the cheese mixture for a spiced flavor.
- Chocolate chips or cocoa powder can be added to the cheese mixture for a chocolatey flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Chill the dough before rolling it out to prevent it from sticking to the rolling pin.
- Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- Allow the vlaai to cool completely before removing it from the pan to prevent it from breaking.
Storage instructions:
Store the vlaai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the vlaai in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the vlaai on a platter and dust it with powdered sugar. Add fresh fruit on top for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
Fresh fruit, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings can be used as garnishes.
Pairings:
Coffee or tea pairs well with the vlaai.
Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit salad or a green salad can be served as a side dish.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crust is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until the dough comes together.
- If the filling is too runny, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the recipe. Store the vlaai in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
Vlaai is a traditional Dutch pastry that originated in the Limburg region. It is typically made with a sweet crust and filled with fruit or custard.
Flavor profiles:
The cheese vlaai has a creamy and slightly tangy flavor with a sweet and buttery crust.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the cheese vlaai as a dessert or a sweet snack. It can also be served as a breakfast pastry.
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Region: Dutch