Heavenly Chocolate Cherry Delight

Ingredients

The crust

330 grams (11.6 ounces) all-purpose flour
20 grams (0.7 ounces) cocoa powder
150 grams (5.3 ounces) sour cream
150 grams (5.3 ounces) unsalted butter
2 grams (0.07 ounces) salt
80 grams (2.8 ounces) sugar
0.5 tsp baking soda
50 grams (1.8 ounces) finely chopped chocolate

The filling

500 grams (17.6 ounces) heavy cottage cheese
90 grams (3.2 ounces) sugar
10 grams (0.35 ounces) vanilla sugar
3 large eggs
20 grams (0.7 ounces) cornstarch
70 grams (2.5 ounces) dried cherries
1 tbsp lemon juice

Equipment

Mixing Bowls
Use several sizes to keep your ingredients organized and make mixing easier.
Coarse Grater
This is essential for grating the chilled dough evenly. Keep it well chilled for best results.
Parchment Paper
Line your baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Baking Dish
A 15x20cm dish is ideal for this recipe. Ensure it's the right size to avoid overflowing.
Electric Mixer
Makes blending the filling smooth and effortless. Alternatively, use a sturdy whisk if you prefer.

Instructions

Step 1

**Step 1:** Rub cold butter into the flour to create a breadcrumb texture. Ensure the butter is very cold for the best texture. Add sour cream mixed with baking soda, salt, sugar, and cocoa powder. Knead into a smooth dough. Divide it into 2 equal parts, wrap in plastic, and freeze for an hour. Freezing helps to handle the dough better.

Step 2

**Step 2:** Blend all filling ingredients except cherries until smooth. A food processor or blender works best for this step. Add dried cherries at the end and mix gently.

Step 3

**Step 3:** Line a 15x20cm (6x8 inches) baking dish with parchment paper. This prevents the crust from sticking to the dish.

Step 4

**Step 4:** Grate the well-chilled dough on a coarse grater and place an even layer in the dish. Spread the filling over the dough and grate the second portion of dough on top. Sprinkle with chopped chocolate. Grating the dough ensures an even distribution.

Step 5

**Step 5:** Bake in a preheated 180°C (356°F) oven for 35-40 minutes. Check for a golden crust on top.

Step 6

**Step 6:** Allow the pie to cool completely before removing it from the dish. This helps the pie set properly.

Servings

Serving Suggestions and Ideas

🎉Host a Dessert Party: Serve this delightful pastry as a centerpiece at your next gathering. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of fresh berries for an extra indulgence.

☕Afternoon Tea Delight: Enjoy a slice with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The rich chocolate and tangy cherry flavors are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite brew!

🍇Gourmet Picnic: Pack this pastry along with some fresh fruits and a selection of cheeses for a gourmet outdoor picnic. It's an easy-to-transport treat that packs a flavorful punch.

🥂Special Occasions: Dress it up with a drizzle of chocolate syrup and a dash of powdered sugar for birthdays or anniversaries. It's a simple yet elegant dessert that's sure to impress.

Variations

Gluten-Free and Vegan Variations

🌾Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients, including baking soda and cocoa powder, are labeled gluten-free.

🌱Vegan: Swap the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative. Substitute the heavy cottage cheese with a vegan cream cheese. Use flax eggs (3 tablespoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 9 tablespoons of water) in place of the eggs. For the filling, use vegan-friendly chocolate and dried cherries.

Faq

How do I know when the pastry is done?
The top should be golden brown and the filling set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to pit and chop them finely. Adjust the sugar slightly if you find them too tart.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
You might need to add a bit more sour cream. Work it gently until it comes together without over-kneading.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can wrap it well and freeze it for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before grating and using.
How can I make the filling smoother?
Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before blending. This helps in achieving a smoother, creamier filling.
How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
Ensure your filling is not too wet and bake the pastry until it is properly set and golden on top.