Ingredients
Cheese Layer



Pear Layer


Instructions
Step 1
Start by slicing the pears into thin wedges. Make sure to cut them evenly for consistent cooking.
Next, melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced pears, brown sugar, and cinnamon to the pan. Stir gently to combine.
Cook the pears on low heat until they are caramelized and softened. It's important to monitor them closely to ensure the pears retain their shape and do not turn into a puree.
Step 2
Begin by separating the egg yolks from the egg whites. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks.
In another bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the egg yolks, rice flour, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix this until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the cottage cheese mixture. Make sure to do this gently to keep the volume of the whipped egg whites.
Step 3
Prepare a baking dish lined with parchment paper. First, evenly spread the caramelized pears in the bottom of the dish.
Next, pour the cheese mixture over the pears and smooth it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 55 to 60 minutes. When done, the top should be golden and firm.
Allow the casserole to cool completely. For a better texture, you can refrigerate it to set further, if desired.
Servings
When it's time to serve, slice this casserole into squares and present them on a charming platter. Pair each piece with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra touch of indulgence. 🍦✨
For an interesting twist, drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the top, letting it cascade down the sides, creating a **mouthwatering visual**! 🌟 Trust me; your guests will be in awe.
Feeling adventurous? Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making this dessert the perfect companion for a cozy chat among friends. ☕💬
Equipment
Choose a medium-sized dish to ensure even cooking and easy serving.



Use separate bowls for the cheese mixture and the egg whites for a smooth mixing process.
A whisk works well for hand mixing, but an electric mixer saves time when beating egg whites to stiff peaks.
A silicone spatula is ideal for folding the mixtures without deflating the whipped egg whites.



Variations
If you need a gluten-free option, simply replace the rice flour with a gluten-free blend. For those who are vegan, you can opt for a plant-based cream cheese and use flax eggs instead of eggs. 🌱🥑
Get creative with flavors! Add zest from an orange for a refreshing twist, or sprinkle in some chopped nuts for added crunch. 🔥🥜
Faq
- What if my egg whites don't whip to stiff peaks?
Make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of grease. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can help stabilize them.
- Can I use different fruits for the casserole?
Absolutely! Apples, peaches, or even berries can work wonderfully in place of pears. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
- How can I tell when my casserole is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your casserole is ready!
- Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pear layer and cheese mixture a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
- Why is my casserole not caramelizing properly?
Make sure to cook the pears low and slow! Patience is key to achieving that beautiful caramelization.
- How should I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.