Cheese Bears

Delicious Cheese Bears Recipe

If you want to bring a touch of magic to your kitchen, the Cheese Bears recipe is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the fluffy texture of the dough with the intense flavor of goat cheese (or cow telemea), creating an appealing and characterful snack. Perfect for parties, snacks, or simply to indulge yourself, these bears will surely become the stars of your table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 bears

Ingredients:
- 250 grams goat cheese (or cow telemea)
- 250 grams butter, cut into cubes, at room temperature
- 2 eggs (1 for the dough and 1 for brushing)
- 400 grams flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Spices: cumin, paprika, sesame, poppy seeds (to taste)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing. If the goat cheese is too salty, you can soak it in cold water for 30 minutes to reduce its intensity.

2. Mixing the dough: In a large bowl, start by mixing the flour with the egg and salt. Gradually add the cubed butter. Use your fingers to incorporate the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.

3. Incorporating the cheese: Add the grated goat cheese to the flour mixture. Mix well to distribute it evenly in the dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

4. Forming the dough: Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes. This step will help firm up the butter and make the dough easier to shape.

5. Shaping the bears: On a floured work surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1 cm. Use a bear-shaped cookie cutter or, if you don’t have one, any other desired shape (stars, flowers, etc.). Place the shapes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

6. Brushing and seasoning: Beat the second egg and brush each bear with a pastry brush. This will ensure a golden and appetizing crust. Sprinkle the desired spices on top – cumin adds a slightly spicy flavor, while sesame and poppy seeds add a crunchy note.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the bears for 20-25 minutes or until they become golden and fluffy. Let them cool on a wire rack.

8. Serving: You can serve these bears warm or at room temperature, as appetizers or snacks. They are delicious alongside a yogurt sauce with dill or a fresh salad.

Helpful tips:
- If you want a less salty version, replace the goat cheese with less salty cow cheese or ricotta.
- You can add herbs like dill or oregano to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
- If you want a sweet version, you can try adding a little sugar and vanilla to the dough and serve the bears with jam.

Nutritional benefits:
These cheese bears are an excellent option for a savory snack. Goat cheese is rich in protein and calcium, while butter provides healthy fats. Whole wheat flour (if you choose to use it) can add fiber, thus supporting digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese according to your tastes. Cow telemea is an excellent choice for a milder flavor.

2. Can I freeze the bears?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked bears. Make sure they are well wrapped in plastic wrap and use them within a week or two.

3. What drinks pair well with these bears?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent combinations. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, herbal tea can be a perfect choice.

In conclusion, the Cheese Bears recipe is not just a simple snack, but a true culinary experience. I invite you to put your creativity to the test and share this recipe with friends and family. Whether you enjoy them at a party, on a weekend day, or as a quick snack, these cheese bears will surely make you smile!