Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

180 ml Milk (3/4 cup)
60 g Butter (1/4 cup or 2 tablespoons)
300 g Flour (2.5 cups)
20 g Sugar (1.5 tablespoons)
5 g Dry yeast (1.5 teaspoons)
1/2 teaspoon Salt
We recommend:

Filling Ingredients

180 g Curd (3/4 cup)
140 g Cheese (1.5 cups, shredded)
Fresh herbs (a few sprigs)
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter for greasing
Egg yolk for brushing

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Dough

In warm milk (around 36-38 °C or 97-100 °F), dissolve the dry yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Mix well and let it sit in a warm place for about 10-15 minutes until a frothy layer appears on the surface.

Next, add the soft butter and the remaining sugar to the mixture, stirring with a whisk until combined.

Sift in the flour and start kneading the dough. If necessary, you can add a touch more flour, but try not to make the dough too stiff.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in a warm area for about 1.5 hours. The dough should approximately double in size.

Step 2

Prepare the Filling

Using a fork, mash the curd until smooth. Grate the cheese using a fine grater and chop the fresh herbs.

Combine all the filling ingredients in a bowl, season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until well incorporated.

Step 3

Assemble the Pastries

Divide the dough into 8-9 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Using the bottom of a glass lightly greased with vegetable oil, create a well in the center of each dough ball.

Fill the well with the prepared filling, pressing it down slightly and leaving a little mound on top, as the cheese will melt and settle while baking.

Brush the tops of the pastries with beaten egg yolk. If your oven tends to brown quickly, mix the yolk with 1 tablespoon of milk before brushing.

Step 4

Bake the Pastries

Preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Bake the pastries for about 20 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.

Once baked, while still hot, brush the pastries generously with melted butter, including the filling.

Servings

These delightful pastries are perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or as a sweet treat to share with friends. Serve them warm, straight from the oven, and watch as everyone reaches for another!

Feeling fancy? Pair them with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of honey for added zest. 🍯 You can also enjoy them alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee, enhancing your pastry experience and making it even more enjoyable!

For those looking for a wonderful brunch idea, these pastries can be served with fresh fruits or berries. Imagine the combination of berry jam and these soft baked goodies - a moment of bliss!

Equipment

Baking Tray

Your baking tray should be lined with parchment paper for easy clean-up. This will prevent the pastries from sticking and ensure they bake evenly.

We recommend:

Variations

If you're considering making these pastries gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. 🍞 There are many great options out there that work perfectly in baking!

For a vegan version, you can use plant-based butter and a dairy-free cheese substitute in the filling. Additionally, you can replace the egg wash with almond milk for brushing the tops. This way, you can still enjoy these sumptuous treats without compromising on your dietary preferences! 🌱

Faq

  • What if my dough doesn’t rise?

    Make sure your yeast is fresh and that you are allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment. If it's too cold, it may not activate properly.

  • How can I tell when the pastries are baked perfectly?

    They should be a golden brown color and a little firm to the touch. If they are overly soft, give them a couple more minutes in the oven.

  • Can I make the dough ahead of time?

    Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

  • What is the best way to store leftover pastries?

    Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for a little longer. You can reheat them before serving.

  • How can I achieve a fluffier texture?

    If you prefer a fluffier pastry, try adding an extra egg to the dough or incorporating a little more milk. It can really make a difference!

  • Can I add different fillings to these pastries?

    Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with fillings. You can use fruits, different cheeses, or even a chocolate spread for a sweet twist!

Nutrition facts

Delicious Curd and Cheese Pastries Recipe
Recipe Yield:8-9 servings
Calories:Approximately 200-300 calories per serving.
Calories (Min - Max):200 - 300
Total Fat:10g
Saturated Fat:4g
Protein:7g
Total Carbohydrate:30g
Total Sugars:5g