There’s something incredibly comforting about homemade pastries, especially when they are filled with delicious, savory cheese. This recipe for cheese-filled pastries combines the richness of buttery dough with a flavorful, creamy filling, making it perfect for any occasion—from breakfast and brunch to snacks or appetizers. The process is simple enough for a weekday bake but yields results that are impressive enough for special gatherings. Follow these steps to create your own batch of mouthwatering cheese-filled pastries.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• Water: 400 ml
• Salt: 1 tablespoon
• Soft Flour: 700 grams + extra for mixing
• Egg: 1
• Butter: 200 grams, softened

For the Filling:

• Cheese: 500 grams (your choice of cheese, such as feta, ricotta, or a mix)
• Egg Whites: 2
• Egg Yolk: 1
• Salt: As needed

For the Coating:

• Egg Yolk: 1, for brushing

Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough:

• Begin by combining 400 ml of water and 1 tablespoon of salt in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the salt is fully dissolved.
• Gradually add the 700 grams of soft flour to the water mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. The mixture will start to come together as a dough.
• Incorporate 1 large egg into the dough mixture, followed by the softened 200 grams of butter. The butter should be well integrated into the dough, resulting in a soft, smooth, and elastic dough.
• If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in additional flour, a little at a time, until it reaches the right consistency—soft but not sticky to the touch.
• Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow it to rest for about 20-30 minutes. This resting time will make the dough easier to roll out later.

2. Making the Cheese Filling:

• While the dough is resting, prepare the cheese filling. In a medium bowl, crumble or grate your 500 grams of chosen cheese.
• Add 2 egg whites and 1 egg yolk to the cheese mixture. Stir until the eggs are fully incorporated, creating a creamy, smooth filling.
• Taste the mixture and add salt as needed, keeping in mind the saltiness of the cheese. If using a very salty cheese like feta, you might not need to add much salt.

3. Assembling the Pastries:

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) at least 30 minutes before you plan to bake.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness. The thickness of the dough will determine the texture of the finished pastries—thicker dough results in a heartier, more bread-like texture, while thinner dough will yield a crisper, flakier pastry.
• Cut the rolled-out dough into squares or circles, depending on the shape you prefer for your pastries.
• Place a generous spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each dough piece. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the pastries to burst open during baking.
• Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges by pressing them together with your fingers or a fork. Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

4. Preparing for Baking:

• Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one to allow for even baking.
• In a small bowl, beat 1 egg yolk and use a pastry brush to lightly coat the top of each pastry. This egg wash will give the pastries a beautiful golden-brown color as they bake.

5. Baking the Pastries:

• Bake the pastries in your preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your pastries, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes.
• Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. They are best served warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

6. Serving Suggestions:

• These cheese-filled pastries are incredibly versatile. Serve them as part of a breakfast spread, alongside a fresh salad for lunch, or as a savory snack during the day.
• Pair them with a variety of dips or sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or even a spicy yogurt dip, for added flavor.

Tips and Tricks

• Dough Handling: To ensure the dough is easy to work with, make sure to let it rest after mixing. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
• Cheese Options: While feta and ricotta are popular choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, cottage cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Adding Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh or dried herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to the cheese filling.
• Freezing Pastries: These pastries freeze well, so you can make a large batch and freeze some for later. Freeze them before baking, and when you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
• Protein: 10-12 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sodium: 500-600 mg

These estimates can vary depending on the type of cheese and exact ingredients used. Remember, homemade pastries are generally higher in calories due to the butter and cheese, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of soft flour?
   • Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture and taste of the pastry, making it denser. You might need to adjust the water content slightly.
2. What other fillings can I use?
   • You can experiment with various fillings, such as spinach and feta, ground meat with spices, or even a sweet filling like apples and cinnamon for a dessert version.
3. How do I store leftover pastries?
   • Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or a toaster oven to regain their crispiness.
4. Can I make the dough in advance?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.

Conclusion

These homemade cheese-filled pastries are a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as an appetizer for gatherings. The combination of a soft, buttery dough with a savory cheese filling is simply irresistible. With this recipe, you can enjoy the satisfaction of baking something delicious from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Enjoy your homemade pastries with a cup of tea or coffee, and watch them disappear from the plate in no time! Happy baking!