This recipe creates tender and delicious pastries with a rich curd (or ricotta) filling that melts in your mouth. It’s an easy and delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. With a golden crust and creamy center, these pastries offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory. They’re quick to prepare and loved by both kids and adults!
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Bake time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
Ingredients (in cups and grams):
For the Dough:
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons (40 grams) sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- Vanilla (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons (25 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 1/4 cups (150 grams) all-purpose flour (add gradually)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup (250 grams) cottage cheese or ricotta
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar
- Vanilla (to taste)
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 egg, 40 grams of sugar, vanilla, a pinch of salt, and 25 ml vegetable oil.
- Gradually add 150 grams of flour in 2-3 portions, mixing until a soft, smooth dough forms.
- Make the Filling:
- In a separate bowl, combine 250 grams of cottage cheese (or ricotta), 1 egg, 50 grams of sugar, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble the Pastries:
- Divide the dough into 6 equal parts.
- Roll out each piece into a layer about 3-4 mm thick.
- Add a portion of the filling to each rolled-out dough layer, fold or shape as desired.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Place the pastries on a lined baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
- Add fresh berries or jam on the side for a fruity twist.
- Top with whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Cooking Tips:
- Use ricotta for a smoother filling; cottage cheese offers a chunkier texture.
- To prevent sticking, lightly dust the work surface with flour while rolling the dough.
- If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour until manageable.
- For a golden crust, brush the tops of the pastries with a little egg wash before baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cottage cheese and ricotta are great sources of protein and calcium.
- The use of moderate sugar keeps the pastries lightly sweetened, making them a healthier treat.
- Eggs provide essential vitamins, such as B12, and minerals.
- Low in saturated fats, especially if you choose low-fat dairy options.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Not gluten-free (contains flour).
- Can be adapted for low-sugar diets by reducing sugar or using alternatives like honey or stevia.
- Replace with dairy-free cheese for a lactose-intolerant friendly option.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 7 grams
- Fat: 7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 24 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 10 grams
- Calcium: 150 mg
Storage:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap pastries individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.
- The tender pastry combined with the creamy, slightly sweet filling is irresistibly delicious.
- Versatile recipe – you can customize the filling with chocolate, fruit, or even savory options.
- Minimal ingredients and pantry staples make this an accessible recipe for any home cook.
Conclusion:
These delicious curd-filled pastries are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their tender, golden crust and creamy filling will satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a lovely dessert, these pastries are easy to make and sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a homemade treat with a delightful combination of flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use something other than cottage cheese or ricotta? Yes, you can use cream cheese or mascarpone for a creamier texture.
- Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before using it.
- What’s the best way to reheat these pastries? Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Can I add fruit to the filling? Absolutely! You can fold in small fruit pieces like berries, or add jam for extra flavor.
- How can I make the recipe gluten-free? Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, and check your baking powder is gluten-free.
- Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe? Yes, you can reduce sugar by up to half, or use sugar alternatives like honey or stevia.
- Do I need to drain the cottage cheese? Yes, if your cottage cheese is very watery, draining it will help the filling stay firm.
- How long can these pastries stay fresh? They can stay fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days in the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze these pastries after baking? Yes, you can freeze them. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
- Can I make these pastries vegan? Substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.