Description
This classic Swedish Cheese Pie, known as Västerbottenostpaj, features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a rich and creamy mixture of Gruyere or Västerbottenost cheese, eggs, and cream. Baked to perfection, it’s a savory delight perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pastry Dough
- 125 grams butter, chilled (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tbsp cold water
Cheese Filling
- 3 cups Gruyere or Västerbottenost, grated
- 3 large eggs
- 200 ml cream (about 3/4 cups & 2 tbsp)
- dash ground pepper
Garnish
- Chopped chives
Instructions
- Prepare the Pastry Dough: Combine the flour, chilled butter, and cold water in a food processor or mix manually until barely combined, forming a crumbly dough.
- Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Roll and Shape: Remove dough from refrigerator, roll it out with a rolling pin, then place it into an 8-inch pie form, trimming any excess around the edges.
- Freeze the Dough: Put the pie form with dough into the freezer for 30 minutes to prevent shrinkage during baking.
- Preheat Oven & Blind Bake: Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Prick the dough randomly with a fork to allow steam release, then bake for 12 to 15 minutes until set. Remove and cool.
- Prepare Cheese Filling: Lower oven temperature to 200°C (375°F). In a large bowl, whisk together the grated cheese, pepper, eggs, and cream until well combined.
- Fill the Pie: Pour the cheese mixture evenly into the prebaked pastry shell.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling has set and is slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the pie cool for at least 20 minutes to allow the filling to firm up before slicing.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped chives over the pie before serving for a fresh, mild onion flavor.
Notes
- Use Västerbottenost cheese for an authentic Swedish flavor, or substitute with Gruyere if unavailable.
- Chilling and freezing the dough ensures a crisp crust that won’t shrink during baking.
- Letting the pie cool before serving helps the filling set perfectly.
- This pie can be served warm or at room temperature and pairs well with a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Pie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swedish