Syrup-soaked pastries

Syrupy Cheese Pastries - A Warm Delicacy for Your Soul!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 9 servings

Who doesn't love the inviting aroma of warm pastries filled with cheese and a sweet syrup that tantalizes the senses? Syrupy cheese pastries are a perfect choice for a hearty breakfast or a sweet snack at any time of the day. These delicious pastries have their origins in cooking traditions from various cultures, where cheese and dough are staple ingredients, beloved by generations. Get ready to indulge in this simple and quick recipe that will surely become your favorite!

Necessary ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 600 g flour (preferably type 650 or 000)
- 40 g fresh yeast
- 3 large eggs
- 150 g yogurt (preferably Greek for a creamy texture)
- 100 ml warm milk
- 100 g butter
- 100 g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 1 packet of vanilla (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- Zest of 1 orange (for an extra flavor boost)
- A pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons oil (for a finer dough)

*For the filling:*
- 350 g salty cheese (or cottage cheese, depending on preferences)
- 1 egg and 1 yolk
- 150 g powdered sugar (brown, if you prefer)
- 1 packet of vanilla
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or sifted flour)
- A pinch of baking soda quenched with a few drops of lemon
- 150 g yogurt (preferably Greek)
- 1 yolk for brushing
- 5 tablespoons warm milk

*For the syrup:*
- 400 ml water
- 200 g brown sugar
- 1.5 tablespoons rum essence
- 1 packet of vanilla
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough: Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step helps aerate the flour, making the dough fluffier.

2. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast with a few tablespoons of warm milk and a teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to use.

3. Mixing the wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs well with a pinch of salt and sugar. In a small saucepan, melt the butter in the warm milk. Once the butter is completely melted, add the yogurt and the flavors (vanilla and orange zest). Mix well.

4. Preparing the dough: Start adding the egg mixture and the activated yeast to the flour, mixing with a spatula or your hands. Begin kneading the dough, and at the end, incorporate the oil, tablespoon by tablespoon. Continue kneading until the dough becomes elastic and homogeneous.

5. Letting it rise: Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 50 minutes, or until it doubles in size. Before letting it rise, score it deeply in a cross shape to allow for even expansion.

6. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the crumbled cheese with the eggs, sugar, vanilla, orange zest, cornstarch, and baking soda quenched with lemon. Add the yogurt and mix until you get a homogeneous mixture. Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes.

7. Shaping the pastries: On a floured surface, divide the risen dough into 9 equal pieces. Each piece is rolled into a circle and filled with 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture. Pinch the edges together in the middle to form a pouch.

8. Final rising: Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for another 30 minutes, covered with a towel.

9. Preparing the syrup: In a saucepan, bring the water and sugar to a boil. Add the vanilla, rum essence, and lemon juice. Let it boil for a few minutes, then remove from heat.

10. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Brush the pastries with a mixture of yolk and milk and bake for 40 minutes, until golden and fluffy.

11. Soaking: As soon as you take the pastries out of the oven, drizzle the warm syrup over them. They will absorb the syrup and turn into an irresistible delicacy.

12. Serving: Serve the pastries warm, dusted with a little powdered sugar or alongside a cup of Greek yogurt. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast experience.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta, to achieve different flavors.
- If you prefer a less sweet taste, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling.
- These pastries can be frozen. Wrap them well after they have cooled, and you can reheat them in the oven when you crave them.

Nutritional benefits:
The pastries are a good source of protein from eggs and cheese, and yogurt adds beneficial probiotics for digestion. Additionally, whole flour and brown sugar provide fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 14 g of dry yeast, which is 7 g for every 500 g of flour.

2. How can I make the pastries less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and syrup according to your taste.

3. Can the pastries be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead and bake them the next morning.

These syrupy cheese pastries are a delight for the taste buds and a perfect way to start the day or indulge in a delicious dessert. So, don't hesitate to start cooking! You'll bring joy not only to the plate but also to the hearts of your loved ones. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 600 g flour, 40 g fresh yeast, 3 eggs, 150 g yogurt (Greek style), 100 ml milk, 100 g butter, 100 g sugar, vanilla, orange zest, a pinch of salt, 3 tablespoons oil. Filling: 350 g salty telemea cheese (I used Hochland cow cheese), 1 egg and 1 yolk, 150 g powdered (brown) sugar, vanilla, orange zest, 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or sifted flour), a pinch of baking soda extinguished with a few drops of lemon juice, 1 small yogurt (150 g) (I used Greek), yolk for brushing and 5 tablespoons warm milk. Syrup: 1 and a half cups of water (400 ml), 1 cup of sugar (brown), 1 and a half essence of rum, vanilla, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.

 Tags:  cheese pie breakfast