Cheese and almond/chili pastries

Cheese and almond or chili puffs – a special recipe that will turn any meal into a celebration! These puffs are so delicious that you won't be able to resist the temptation to savor them. In this detailed guide, I will show you step by step how to prepare them perfectly, share some tips, and offer serving suggestions. Get ready to fall in love with these fluffy and flavorful snacks!

Preparation time
- Active time: 30 minutes
- Rest time: 10-12 hours (ideally overnight)
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total: 11-13 hours
- Servings: Approximately 24 puffs

Ingredients
- 500 g fine flour
- 300 g butter or margarine (preferably at room temperature for better incorporation)
- 100 g grated cheese (you can use smoked cheese for a more intense flavor)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 100 ml heavy cream (cold, to help activate the yeast)
- 2 egg yolks (preferably from free-range eggs for a richer taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (helps activate the yeast)
- 20 g fresh yeast
- 1 egg white (to brush the puffs)
- Almond flakes (for decoration)
- Chili flakes (for an extra kick)

A short story about puffs
Puffs are a traditional delicacy, appreciated in many cultures for their fluffy texture and savory taste. These snacks are often associated with moments of conviviality, served at various occasions, from parties to festive meals. Their history is lost in the mists of time, but they remain in everyone's hearts due to their versatility and the unique flavors they can offer.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the flour and butter (or margarine). Gently rub with your fingers until you achieve a sandy consistency. This step is essential as it helps achieve a delicate texture.

2. Adding wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine the cold heavy cream with the crumbled yeast, sugar, and egg yolks. Mix well until the yeast is completely dissolved. This is when the flavors begin to unfold.

3. Combining ingredients: Pour the wet mixture over the flour and butter. Add the salt and knead the dough until it becomes homogeneous. If you find the dough too dry, you can add a little milk until you achieve a pleasant consistency.

4. Folding the dough: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 2 cm thick. Fold it in half, then repeat this process two more times. This step will help the puffs become fluffy and rise beautifully during baking.

5. Resting the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 10-12 hours. It’s best to do this step in the evening so you can bake it the next day.

6. Preparing for baking: When you're ready to continue, take the dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out again, keeping the thickness of 2 cm. Brush the entire surface with the lightly beaten egg white. This will create a golden and crispy crust.

7. Adding toppings: Sprinkle chili flakes and almond flakes over the entire surface of the dough. These will not only add an attractive appearance but also delicious flavors.

8. Cutting the puffs: Use a round or square cutter to cut out the puffs. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them. Ideally, place them as close together as possible so they rise up, not sideways.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and bake the puffs for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn golden and fragrant. The aromas that will spread throughout the house will make it hard for you to resist savoring them.

10. Serving: Once the puffs are baked, let them cool slightly before serving. They are perfect warm, alongside a garlic yogurt dip or, for a refreshing note, with a spicy tomato sauce.

Useful tips
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the cheese with feta cheese for a saltier variant.
- For an extra flavor boost: Add dried herbs like oregano or basil to the dough.
- Storage: The puffs can be kept in an airtight container for 2-3 days, and reheating them in the oven will restore their freshness.

Nutritional benefits
These puffs are rich in carbohydrates and proteins, providing energy throughout the day. The cheese adds calcium, essential for bone health, and almond flakes are an excellent source of healthy fats and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need to adjust the amount (about 7 g of dry yeast for 20 g of fresh yeast).

2. What can I do with leftover dough?
You can use it to make cookies or rolls filled with various ingredients.

3. Can I freeze the puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the puffs after they have completely cooled. I recommend reheating them in the oven to restore their fluffy texture.

These cheese and almond or chili puffs are not only a delicious recipe but also an excellent way to bring joy and flavor into your life and that of your loved ones. Don't hesitate to try them and share this wonderful culinary discovery with others. Enjoy!