Mini cheese pies

Mini cheese pastries: a delicious homemade delicacy

If you are looking for a recipe that combines culinary tradition with an irresistible flavor, you have come to the right place! Mini cheese pastries are a perfect choice for a hearty breakfast, a savory snack, or even a dessert to enjoy with your loved ones. This dish is a true feast for the senses, with its creamy filling and golden crust that will make you fall in love at first bite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 mini pastries

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 1 kg flour
- Approximately 150 ml milk (warmed)
- 100 g melted butter (may vary depending on flour type)
- 2 cubes of fresh yeast
- 200 g sugar
- Zest of one lemon
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- Approximately 400 g cheese (I recommend cow's telemea cheese, but other types can be used)
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 3 eggs
- Zest of one lemon

Preparing the dough

1. Activating the yeast: Start by gently warming the milk, adding 2 tablespoons of sugar. In a bowl, place the yeast and pour the warm milk over it. Sprinkle a little flour on top and let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes until the yeast activates and becomes frothy.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour and make a well in the center. Add the eggs, melted butter, lemon zest, sugar, salt, and the activated yeast mixture. Start mixing the ingredients, taking the flour from the edges towards the center.

3. Kneading: Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and non-sticky. If the dough becomes too tough, add a little oil to rehydrate it and make it more elastic.

4. Rising: Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it sit in a warm place, away from drafts, for about an hour or until the dough doubles in volume.

Preparing the filling

1. Preparing the cheese: If using moist cheese, make sure to drain it to remove excess liquid. Grate the cheese or knead it by hand to break it down well.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar, add the lemon zest and mix well, then incorporate the cheese. Ensure the mixture is smooth and that the sugar is completely dissolved.

Assembling the mini pastries

1. Dividing the dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it into 5-6 equal parts. On a clean surface, roll out each piece of dough into a thin disc.

2. Cutting shapes: Use a glass or a cookie cutter to cut out round shapes from the dough. These will form the base for the mini pastries.

3. Filling: Place a tablespoon of the cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough to form a semicircle and press the edges to seal the filling.

Cooking

1. Frying: In a deep pan, heat the oil. When the oil is hot, add the mini pastries, a few at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry them on each side for 3-4 minutes or until they become golden and crispy.

2. Finishing: Once the mini pastries are ready, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Immediately after taking them out of the pan, dust them with sugar, and if desired, you can also add a bit of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Serving suggestions

Mini cheese pastries are perfect on their own, but they can be accompanied by plum jam or fruit preserves, which will add a sweet and sour note. Additionally, a cup of tea or a cappuccino will perfectly complement the meal.

Variations

- Alternative fillings: You can experiment with various types of cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta, or you can add fresh herbs for a more intense flavor.
- Savory mini pastries: Instead of cheese, you can use savory fillings, such as ground meat or sautéed vegetables, for a savory version.

Nutritional benefits

These mini pastries are a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats due to the cheese and butter. The addition of lemon provides a dose of vitamin C, and the sugar can be adjusted according to your preferences, making the recipe healthier.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use 7 g of dry yeast. Mix it with the flour before adding the other ingredients.

2. How can I store the mini pastries?
You can store the mini pastries in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan to make them crispy again.

3. Can I make the dough the night before?
Sure! You can make the dough the night before and keep it in the fridge. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before using it.

4. How many calories does a mini pastry contain?
Approximately 200-250 calories, depending on size and filling. You can reduce the calorie count by adjusting the amount of sugar or butter.

Now that you have all the necessary details, it’s time to start cooking! Mini cheese pastries are not just a recipe but an unforgettable experience that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!