This Cottage Cheese Cake (Bolo de Requeijão) is perfect as a standalone treat or served with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.
Moving to a new country always brings new experiences, cultures, and, of course, flavors. When I arrived in Portugal, I was fortunate to be welcomed into my new family with open arms and, even better, delicious food. One of the most memorable treats I encountered was a cake made by my mother-in-law’s sister, Tia Lurdes. Every Christmas, she would bake a special cake called Bolo de Requeijão, which translates simply to Cottage Cheese Cake.
The Magic of Cottage Cheese Cake
What makes this cake truly special is its versatility and rich, creamy texture. The cottage cheese adds a moistness that keeps the cake from becoming dry, while the lemon zest brings a refreshing contrast to the sweetness. This cake is not overly sweet, making it a great option for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
Another wonderful aspect of this cake is its cultural significance. Bolo de Requeijão is a traditional Portuguese dessert often made with fresh, locally sourced cottage cheese. It is a staple in many households, particularly during festive seasons. By recreating this recipe, you are not just baking a cake but embracing a piece of Portuguese heritage.
This cake offered a taste unlike anything I had ever experienced before. It had the perfect balance of sweetness, a delightful texture, and an unmistakable touch of citrus zest that made it truly unique. The softness, richness, and the combination of flavors created an unforgettable experience. Unfortunately, as time passed, Tia Lurdes grew older and was no longer able to make this treasured cake. That’s when I decided to take up the challenge and try making it myself.
I put my own spin on the recipe by using lemon zest instead of orange, and the result was extraordinary! My friends absolutely loved it, and when I took it to church, everyone marveled at it. The pure perfection of this cake captivated everyone. Today, I am excited to share this simple yet exquisite recipe with you so you too can enjoy the warm and comforting taste of this Portuguese favorite.
Cottage Cheese Cake
Ingredients
- 50g butter
- 300g cottage cheese (requeijão)
- 4 medium eggs
- 170g sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 150g flour
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- Zest from 2 large lemons
Directions
- Step 1 Start by whisking the butter using a handheld mixer until it becomes creamy and smooth. This will help incorporate air into the batter, making the cake lighter and fluffier. Next, add the cottage cheese and sugar, beating the mixture until it is well combined.
- Step 2 Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring that each is fully mixed before adding the next. This step helps to emulsify the ingredients and create a smooth, rich batter. Once all the eggs are well incorporated, add the lemon zest and vanilla essence. The zest is the star ingredient that infuses the cake with a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor.
- Step 3 Now, add half of the flour and baking powder to the batter. Beat until partially mixed, then pour in the whole milk. Continue beating until smooth, and then add the remaining flour. At this point, switch to a silicone spatula to gently fold the batter, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined without over-mixing.
- Step 4 Grease a bundt pan or any other cake pan of your choice and pour in the batter. Smooth out the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Place the pan in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) and bake for about 35-40 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 5 After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect Cottage Cheese Cake
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cottage cheese and eggs make a significant difference in the taste and texture of the cake.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense rather than light and fluffy.
- Experiment with Citrus Flavors: While I love using lemon zest, you can also try orange zest for a more traditional Portuguese flavor.
- Pair with Tea or Coffee: This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for gatherings.
- Store Properly: Keep the cake in a container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.
A Cake Full of Memories
For me, this cake is more than just a delicious treat. It is a reminder of my early days in Portugal, the warmth of family gatherings, and the kindness of Tia Lurdes. Baking it now brings back cherished memories and allows me to share a piece of my journey with friends and loved ones.
If you’ve never tried baking with cottage cheese, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. It is simple, flavorful, and incredibly rewarding. Whether you are making it for a special occasion or just as a comforting homemade dessert, this cake is sure to impress.
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Cottage Cheese Cake as much as I do. Let me know if you try it—I would love to hear your experience!
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Happy baking 🙂
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