Irish Cottage Cheese Pie
A creamy Irish cottage cheese pie with a tender crust, subtly sweet and vanilla-infused, perfect for comforting desserts or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a pie plate with pie crust (bought or made).
- Start creaming the cheese in a mixer bowl at low speed, gradually adding milk, flour, melted butter, vanilla, eggs, sugar, and salt.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish.
- Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for 45 to 60 minutes until set.
- If desired, sprinkle cinnamon on top before placing in the oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese until creamy before mixing with other ingredients. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Adding a teaspoon of lemon zest can enhance the flavor profile. For a richer taste, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want to cut calories, you can use low-fat cottage cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pie chilled or at room temperature, optionally garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light Spicy Salad Dressing, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich pie. This dessert is delightful with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for brunch or dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish Cottage Cheese Pie contains roughly 506 calories, with 4g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese in this recipe. It will still yield a delicious pie, although the texture might be slightly different. For a creamier consistency, blend the low-fat cottage cheese thoroughly before mixing with other ingredients. Remember that using low-fat options may affect the overall richness of the pie.
What can I substitute for the eggs in the pie?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for each egg. Both alternatives will help bind the ingredients without compromising the taste significantly, making this a suitable option for vegetarian recipes.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the pie is ready. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).