Cheese and strawberry squares

Cheese and Strawberry Squares Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12 squares

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, I will present you with an enticing recipe for cheese and strawberry squares, a perfect combination of the fluffy texture of cottage cheese and the sweetness of fresh strawberries. This quick dessert is ideal for any occasion: from a delicious snack between meals to an elegant dessert for a special dinner.

A bit of history
Recipes with cheese and fruits have been appreciated for centuries in various cultures, and squares with filling are a modern version of these traditional combinations. The puff pastry, with its delicate layers, perfectly complements the creamy filling, offering a contrast of textures that delights the taste buds.

Ingredients
- 500 g puff pastry (thawed at room temperature)
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- 3 tablespoons sweetener (or sugar, if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 250 g fresh strawberries (or frozen, but make sure to thaw and drain them well)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Instructions

1. Preparing the dough
Start by letting the puff pastry thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a perfect texture when baking. If the dough is too cold, it will be difficult to roll out.

2. Preparing the filling
In a large bowl, mix the eggs with the sweetener (or sugar) using an electric mixer or a whisk. It is important to achieve a smooth and fluffy composition. Add the cottage cheese, semolina, and vanilla essence. Mix well until all the ingredients are completely incorporated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the filling cool in the fridge for 20 minutes. This will help blend the flavors.

3. Shaping the squares
On a floured work surface, roll out the puff pastry with a rolling pin until it reaches a thickness of about 3-4 mm. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles of about 10x10 cm. Use a fork to prick the dough in several places to prevent excessive puffing during baking.

4. Filling the dough
In the center of each square of dough, add a tablespoon of the cheese filling, then place a halved strawberry on top. Make sure the filling does not exceed the edges to prevent spilling during baking.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the filled squares on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25 minutes or until they become golden and fluffy. You will smell the wonderful aroma of baked strawberries filling your kitchen!

6. Serving
Once the squares are baked, let them cool for a few minutes in the tray, then transfer them to a cooling rack. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. If you resist the temptation, let them cool completely before enjoying.

Practical tips
- Choosing strawberries: Use fresh, seasonal strawberries for the best flavors. If you can't find strawberries, you can experiment with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries.
- Sweetener: If you want a healthier version, use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, being careful to adjust the quantities according to your preferences.
- Variations: Experiment with adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use light cottage cheese? Yes, light cottage cheese is an excellent option for reducing calories without compromising too much on taste.
- What can I do with leftover dough? You can use the leftover dough to create mini tarts with fruit or chocolate filling.
- How do I store the squares? These squares store well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or you can freeze them for later use.

Nutritional benefits
These cheese and strawberry squares are a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese and vitamins from the strawberries. Each serving contains approximately 180 calories, depending on the ingredients used. They are an excellent choice for a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides valuable nutrients.

Serving suggestion
For a complete experience, serve the squares warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Also, a cup of tea or coffee will pair perfectly with this delicious dessert.

I conclude this recipe with the hope that you will try making it and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 500 g puff pastry, 500 g cottage cheese, 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons semolina, 3 tablespoons sweetener, vanilla essence, strawberries, powdered sugar