👩‍🍳 Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of melted butter or non-stick spray, making sure to coat the bottom and sides.

• Optional: Line with parchment paper for easier removal and cleanup.

• Pro Tip: Butter on the edges creates a slightly crisp, golden border — just like a bakery-style bake.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups cottage cheese, 3 large eggs, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp salt.

• Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend until smooth and slightly airy — cottage cheese will still have a few soft curds, which is perfect.

• Pro Tip: Let the eggs come to room temperature before mixing; this helps the mixture emulsify smoothly.

3. Fold in the Semolina

• Gradually add 1/2 cup semolina to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula.

• Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows the semolina to absorb moisture and thicken slightly, giving the casserole a creamy but set texture.

• Expert Note: Resting ensures that when baked, your casserole won’t weep or turn overly dense.

4. Incorporate the Raspberries

• Gently fold in 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries, being careful not to mash them.

• If using frozen berries, fold them directly from frozen to prevent extra liquid from forming.

• Pro Tip: Use a rubber spatula and fold with a lifting motion rather than stirring aggressively — you want pockets of fruit throughout.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish & Smooth Top

• Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.

• Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread evenly.

• Optional: Dab a few small pieces of butter on top for an extra golden finish.

• Expert Note: Smooth top ensures even baking and a professional-looking presentation.

6. Bake Until Golden & Set

• Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake 35–40 minutes.

• Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center — it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

• Pro Tip: Oven temperatures vary; start checking at 32 minutes to avoid overbaking. The casserole should have a slightly golden top and firm edges, but still be tender inside.

7. Cool Slightly Before Serving

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10–15 minutes.

• Cooling allows it to firm up for clean slices and prevents the berries from sliding.

• Optional: If you like it warm, serve after 10 minutes; for a more set texture, let it rest 20–30 minutes.

8. Optional Finishing Touch

• Drizzle with maple glaze, sprinkle with powdered sugar, or top with slivered almonds.

• For extra flair, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a light cream.

• Pro Tip: The finishing touches enhance flavor and visual appeal, perfect for photographing or serving to guests.