Branzoaice

Recipe: Soft Cheese and Raisin Croissants

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 croissants

Our gastronomic journey today takes us into the world of pastry delicacies, where we will learn to prepare soft and fluffy croissants filled with cheese and raisins. These croissants are perfect for a hearty breakfast, a sweet snack, or even dessert. The loving aroma of cheese and the subtle sweetness of raisins blend perfectly to create a moment of culinary indulgence.

The history of croissants is warm and full of stories. Over time, many cultures have created variations of filled pastries, each with its own ingredients and techniques. Today, we will pay homage to this tradition with a simple recipe that promises spectacular results.

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 1 packet of dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 250 ml of warm milk
- 500 g of flour
- 25 g of melted butter

For the filling:
- 300 g of fresh sheep cheese
- 2 eggs
- 100 g of semolina
- Sugar (to taste)
- Grated lemon zest
- 50 g of raisins

For brushing:
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons of milk
- Sugar (for sprinkling)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by adding all the ingredients for the dough into the bread machine bowl. Ensure that the yeast is well distributed, then select the kneading and rising program. This will take about an hour. During this process, the pleasant smell of rising dough will fill your kitchen.

2. Preparing the filling:
In a large bowl, crumble the cheese with a fork. Add the beaten eggs, semolina, sugar (to taste), grated lemon zest, and raisins. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. Taste the filling and adjust the sugar according to your preferences.

3. Shaping the croissants:
Once the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and turn the dough out. Roll it out into a medium-thick sheet (about 0.5 cm). Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut rectangles of about 10x12 cm.

4. Filling and folding:
On each rectangle, place about 2 tablespoons of the cheese filling, then fold it like an envelope, ensuring the edges are well pressed. This step is essential to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

5. Preparing for baking:
Place the croissants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a few centimeters between them. This will allow them to bake evenly. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks with the milk and brush each croissant with this mixture. Sprinkle a little sugar on top for a golden and delicious crust.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the croissants for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden and fluffy. When you take them out of the oven, let them cool slightly before enjoying.

Serving suggestions:
These croissants are delicious both warm and cold. You can sprinkle them with vanilla powdered sugar for an elegant look. Also, served alongside a fragrant tea or freshly brewed coffee, they become a perfect choice for a savory brunch!

Calories and nutritional benefits:
On average, one croissant contains about 180-200 calories, depending on size and filling. The cheese provides quality protein, while the raisins add a boost of iron and antioxidants. The semolina adds essential fiber for healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Of course! You can experiment with other types of cheese, such as ricotta or cottage cheese, for a lighter version.

2. What is the secret to fluffy croissants?
Make sure the yeast is active (check the expiration date) and let the dough rise well. A warm environment helps a lot!

3. Can I freeze the croissants?
Yes, you can freeze the croissants before baking. Make sure to cover them well and let them thaw completely before baking.

4. How can I vary the recipe?
You can add other ingredients to the filling, such as nuts or chocolate. Experiment with flavors like vanilla or cinnamon for a unique taste.

This recipe for cheese and raisin croissants will surely become a favorite in your home. The creative approach and love for cooking reflect in every bite. So, put a smile on your face, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the culinary moment!