Cheese pastries

Cheese Fornetti – a simple and savory delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 fornetti

Who doesn't love the aroma and texture of perfectly baked puff pastry? This cheese fornetti recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, making it ideal for a quick snack or to impress guests. Moreover, it’s a great way to utilize leftover cheeses in the fridge. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 package of puff pastry (about 275 g)
- 100 g sheep cheese (grated)
- 100 g cow telemea cheese (grated)
- 100 g cheese (grated)
- 1 tube of cream cheese (about 200 g)
- 1 egg (for brushing)

Ingredient tips:

1. Cheeses: Choose quality cheeses, as the final taste of the fornetti greatly depends on them. Sheep cheese brings an intense flavor, while telemea adds a salty contrast. The cheese, on the other hand, will add a creamy texture and a milder taste.
2. Puff pastry: Use good quality puff pastry, either store-bought or homemade, if you want to experiment. Ensure it is well-thawed if frozen, for the best results.
3. Herbs: If desired, add fresh or dried herbs such as dill or parsley to enrich the flavor, making the recipe even more interesting.

Preparing the fornetti:

1. Preparing the cheeses: Start by grating the sheep cheese, telemea, and cheese using a fine grater. Mix them in a large bowl. Add the cream cheese and mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. If you choose to add herbs, now is the time to incorporate them.

2. Preparing the puff pastry: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. On a well-floured work surface, roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares of about 10x10 cm. Each square will become a small "pillow" filled with cheese.

3. Filling the fornetti: Place a spoonful of cheese filling in the center of each square. Fold the corners of the squares toward the center, forming a small package. Make sure the edges are well sealed so that the cheese doesn’t leak during baking.

4. Score and brush: Using a sharp knife, score each fornetti on top to allow steam to escape during baking. This will help achieve a fluffy texture. Then, beat the egg and brush each fornetti with it for a golden and shiny crust.

5. Baking: Place the fornetti on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they become golden and crispy. The aromas will fill the kitchen, and patience will be rewarded!

6. Serving: After taking them out of the oven, let the fornetti cool for a few minutes. They can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer at a festive meal.

Serving suggestions:

Cheese fornetti can be served alongside a fresh green salad with lemon dressing, or with a yogurt sauce with dill. They are also wonderful with a glass of dry white wine or craft beer.

Possible variations:

- For a vegetarian option, replace the cheeses with a mix of sautéed vegetables (e.g., spinach, mushrooms, and feta cheese).
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, to achieve varied flavors.
- Add spices like paprika or cumin to the cheese filling for a spicier taste.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

Each fornetti has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Cheeses are a good source of calcium and protein, but it’s important to consume them in moderation. This appetizer can be a good choice within a balanced diet, keeping portion sizes in mind.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with your favorite cheeses, but make sure they melt well.

2. Can I prepare fornetti in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the fornetti and freeze them before baking. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

3. Do the fornetti keep well?
Yes, fornetti can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

By making these cheese fornetti, you will bring a touch of joy and comfort in every bite. This simple recipe will surely become a favorite choice in your kitchen. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy this delicacy!