Pastured with cheese

Cheese Pastries – A Traditional Delight for the Soul and Table

If you are looking for a dessert that brings joy with every bite, cheese pastries are the perfect choice. This delicious dish, with a soft dough and creamy cheese filling, is ideal for any occasion, from holidays to gatherings with friends. It is a recipe that combines tradition with authentic flavors and will delight your guests. Let's discover together how to prepare these pastries, step by step, with practical tips and useful tricks to help you achieve a perfect result.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 70 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total: 2 hours and 5 minutes
Number of Servings: 12 pastries

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 600 g flour
- 150 g sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 egg yolks
- 35 g fresh yeast
- 150 g yogurt
- 5-6 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons soft butter
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- Grated zest of one lemon
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 600 g cottage cheese (preferably well-drained)
- 3 eggs + 1 for brushing
- 3-4 tablespoons sour cream
- 7 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon semolina
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 2 teaspoons rum essence
- 4 tablespoons raisins (optional)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

A Brief History

Cheese pastries have a long-standing tradition, being a beloved dessert in many cultures, often associated with religious holidays and festive events. They are often prepared for Easter but can also be enjoyed at other times of the year. The recipe varies from region to region, but what remains constant is their delicious taste and fluffy texture.

Making the Dough

1. Prepare the ingredients: Take all the ingredients out of the fridge the night before to bring them to room temperature. This step is essential for optimal yeast activity and for a uniform dough.

2. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, rub the yeast with a tablespoon of sugar until completely dissolved. Let it rest for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

3. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the sugar and a pinch of salt. This step helps aerate the flour and achieve a finer texture.

4. Add the wet ingredients: In the center of the flour, make a well and add the beaten egg, egg yolks, activated yeast, yogurt, sour cream, and lemon zest. Mix everything by hand until a dough forms.

5. Knead the dough: Gradually add the milk and continue kneading until you obtain a smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky dough. Finally, incorporate the soft butter. Knead for another 5-10 minutes to activate the gluten, which will make the dough even fluffier.

6. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for 60-70 minutes or until it doubles in volume.

Preparing the Filling

1. Prepare the cheese: In a large bowl, place the cottage cheese and knead it with your hands to make it finer.

2. Mix the other ingredients: Add the 3 beaten eggs, sugar, semolina, sour cream, lemon zest, rum essence, and raisins (if using). Mix everything well until you obtain a uniform composition.

Assembling the Pastries

1. Divide the dough: After the dough has risen, tear off half of it and roll it out on a floured surface, obtaining a sheet about 0.5 cm thick.

2. Cut out shapes: Use mini tart molds or a glass to cut circles from the dough. Place each circle in the molds, pressing it well against the bottom and sides. Prick the base with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.

3. Fill the pastries: Add the cheese filling, filling each mold almost to the edge. You can decorate the pastries with the remaining dough, making cross shapes or other designs.

4. Brush with egg: Beat one egg and brush each pastry with a pastry brush for a golden and appetizing crust.

Baking

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 180°C. Make sure it is well heated before placing the pastries inside.

2. Bake the pastries: Place the molds in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the pastries are nicely browned.

3. Cooling: Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and cover them with a paper towel, then with a thick cloth. This step will keep them moist and fluffy.

4. Serving: After they have completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar and serve with pleasure. These pastries are excellent alongside a cup of aromatic tea or a glass of milk.

Useful Tips and Variations

- Cheese: You can use fresh cottage cheese, but also ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a finer texture.
- Raisins: If you don't like raisins, you can replace them with chocolate pieces or candied fruits.
- Flavorings: Try adding a few drops of vanilla essence for a more complex taste.
- Filling: Experiment with poppy seed or cocoa fillings for a unique variation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Replace 35 g of fresh yeast with about 10 g of dry yeast.

2. How can I store the pastries?
Store the pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze them for longer storage.

3. What drinks pair well with the pastries?
The pastries pair well with warm tea, cappuccino, or a glass of cold milk.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! Each pastry will become not just a dessert but a pleasant memory for your loved ones. Enjoy every moment and every bite!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 600 g flour, 150 g sugar, 1 egg, 2 yolks, 35 g yeast, 150 g yogurt, 5-6 tablespoons milk, 2 tablespoons soft butter, 1 tablespoon sour cream, grated lemon peel, a pinch of salt. Filling: 600 g cottage cheese, 3 eggs + 1 for brushing, 3-4 tablespoons sour cream, 7 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon semolina, grated lemon peel, 2 teaspoons rum essence, 4 tablespoons raisins, powdered sugar.