Pay de Queso (Mexican Cheesecake)

Discover the authentic taste of a Mexican bakery with this traditional Queso Fresco Cheesecake. Unlike its cream cheese counterpart, this cheesecake boasts a distinctive flavor profile, thanks to the rich and crumbly texture of queso fresco. The addition of condensed milk provides a velvety smoothness, making it a delectable treat for any occasion. Perfectly paired with fresh strawberries or a decadent drizzle of dulce de leche, this cheesecake is a must-try for dessert enthusiasts.

Ingredients

For the Crust:
🥣 3 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
🧈 5 tbsp butter or margarine
🌿 5 tbsp vegetable shortening
🍬 3⁄4 cup sugar
🥚 2 eggs
🍦 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:
🧀 20 oz (550 g) queso fresco
🥚 5 eggs
🥛 1 can of evaporated milk
🥛 2 cans of media crema
🥛 1 can of condensed milk
🍋 1 tsp lime juice
🍦 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1- Preheat Your Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2- Prepare the Crust:

• In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and sugar. Cut in the butter and vegetable shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
• Divide the dough into two equal parts. Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll each dough portion into a circle about 1/2 cm thick.
• Carefully transfer the rolled dough into your pie pans, pressing gently to fit without stretching the dough. Trim any excess and crimp the edges.

3- Make the Filling:

• If your blender is large, combine all filling ingredients directly. If not, blend in batches: first blend the queso fresco, evaporated milk, and half of the media crema; then blend the remaining media crema, eggs, condensed milk, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
• Mix both blended parts in a large bowl until well combined.

4- Assemble and Bake:

• Pour the filling evenly into the prepared pie crusts.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the centers are firm and set.

5- Cool and Serve:

• Allow the pies to cool before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of dulce de leche if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: Makes 2 pies
Equipment: Mixing bowls, rolling pin, pie pans, blender

Cooking Tips:

• For a stronger cheese flavor, use air-dried queso fresco.
• Ensure the dough is slightly larger than the pie pan for an easy fit and beautifully crimped edges.

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NoWayJoseCuisine
Pay de Queso (Mexican Cheesecake)