Cheese Baskets by Laura Laurentiu

Cheese Baskets - A Delicious Delicacy Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I invite you to discover a delicious recipe for cheese baskets, perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends. These baskets are not only tasty but also visually appealing, shaped like adorable little baskets. With a rich filling of cheese and cottage cheese, these appetizers are sure to impress anyone. About the Recipe The origins of cheese baskets can be found in the culinary tradition of using simple ingredients to create flavorful dishes. This recipe combines the fluffy texture of the dough with a creamy filling, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. They pair perfectly with a cold beer or a glass of white wine, turning any meal into a feast. Preparation Time - Preparation time: 30 minutes - Rising time: 1 hour - Baking time: 25 minutes - Total: 1 hour and 55 minutes - Servings: 12 baskets Ingredients For the dough: - 500 g of flour - 25 g of fresh yeast - 75 g of butter - 300 ml of milk - 1 teaspoon of salt - 1 tablespoon of sugar For the filling: - 100 g of cottage cheese - 150 g of grated cheese - 50 g of butter For brushing: - 1 beaten egg or 1 egg yolk Necessary Utensils - Bowl for rising - Baking tray - Parchment paper - Grater - Scissors - Pastry brush Step by Step Step 1: Preparing the yeast Start by dissolving the fresh yeast in 100 ml of warm milk. Add a tablespoon of sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of flour, mixing well. Let the yeast rise for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. Step 2: Preparing the dough In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and the risen yeast. Melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Add the melted butter and the remaining warm milk to the flour mixture. Knead the dough well for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and non-sticky. Cover it with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. Step 3: Preparing the filling While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Grate the cheese using a fine grater and mix it well with the cottage cheese and softened butter. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. Step 4: Shaping the baskets Once the dough has risen, place it on a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangular sheet. Evenly sprinkle the filling over the dough, then roll it up widthwise. Let the roll rest for 5 minutes, then roll it out again into a rectangular sheet, this time rolling it lengthwise. Step 5: Creating the basket shape Using scissors, make 3 cuts along the roll, leaving a ½ inch gap between each cut. For the third cut, cut the roll completely. Twist the ends of the roll to form a basket shape. Repeat the process with the remaining dough. Step 6: Baking Place the baskets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush them with the beaten egg, and optionally, add a piece of cheese on each. Let them rise for another 10 minutes, then bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 25 minutes or until they are golden and browned. Serving and Variations These cheese baskets are excellent both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them as appetizers at parties or as a snack alongside a fresh salad. You can also add herbs to the filling, such as dill or parsley, for an extra flavor boost. Practical Tips 1. Yeast: Make sure the yeast is fresh for a fluffy dough. 2. Ingredient temperature: Use warm milk and melted butter, but not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it. 3. Dough texture: If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it. 4. Filling: Experiment with different types of cheese or add chopped black olives or bell peppers for an extra flavor note. Nutritional Benefits These baskets provide a good source of protein from the cheese and contain carbohydrates from the flour, making them an ideal choice for an energizing snack. However, it's best to consume them in moderation, considering the fat content from the butter and cheese. Frequently Asked Questions Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast. About 10 g would be sufficient for this recipe. Can I prepare the dough a day in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and keep it in the refrigerator. The next day, let it come to room temperature before using it. What other fillings can I use? Try combinations with ground meat, mushrooms, or vegetables to create savory variations of the baskets. I encourage you to try this cheese basket recipe and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! You will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!

Categories

Appetizers

Beverages

Celebrity chefs

Chef in the city

Children

Coffee

Conserve

Cook and smile

Culinary Games

Culinary School

Dessert

Diverse

Doughs and pastries

Drinks

Fish

Healthy Delights

International

Jakob Hausmann

Jam

Jamie Oliver

Meat

Miscellaneous

Over

Pasta/Pizza

Pickles

Plague

Salad

Sandwiches

Sauces

Savory

Season

Sezon

Slow cooking

Soups

Star Recipe

Syrup

Translated

Various

Vegan