Roses with cheese and goji

Delicious cheese and goji roses: a captivating recipe for indulgent moments

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12 roses

Introduction

Imagine a sunny afternoon, where the sweet aroma of the breeze entices the senses, and you find yourself in the kitchen, preparing a delicacy that blends tradition with a touch of innovation. These cheese and goji roses are much more than just a dessert; they are an explosion of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Inspired by pastry recipes passed down through generations, this recipe brings a modern twist by incorporating goji berries, known for their nutritional benefits.

Necessary ingredients

To achieve fluffy and delicious roses, you need the following ingredients:

- 500 g flour (choose a high-quality flour to achieve perfect dough)
- 2 eggs (one for the dough and another for brushing)
- 10 g dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast, if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (sunflower oil is ideal)
- Milk as needed (approximately 200 ml, but adjust according to the dough's texture)
- 150 g sugar (or more if you like it sweet)
- 400-500 g cottage cheese (make sure it is well-drained, without water)
- 1 egg (for the filling)
- Zest of one orange (for a fresh and aromatic taste)
- 100-150 g sugar (to sweeten the filling)
- Approximately 30 g goji berries (a miracle ingredient, rich in antioxidants)
- 1 egg for brushing (for a golden and shiny crust)

Step by step for a perfect recipe

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the dry yeast with 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of flour, and 100 ml of warm milk. Cover the bowl and set it aside for 10-15 minutes until the yeast starts to bubble and rise.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour. In the center of the flour, add the activated yeast, eggs, remaining sugar, orange zest, oil, and a pinch of salt. Start kneading the dough, gradually adding milk until you achieve an elastic and homogeneous consistency. The dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet.

3. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.

4. Preparing the filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Drain the cottage cheese to remove excess water, then mix it with sugar, orange zest, egg, and goji berries. Adjust the sweetness of the filling to taste.

5. Forming the roses: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface until you achieve a thin sheet. Cut the sheet into squares of approximately 10 cm. Make cuts along the edges of each square in a cross shape, leaving the center intact.

6. Assembling the roses: Place a teaspoon of the cheese filling in the center of each square. Then, fold the corners of the square towards the center, slightly overlapping them to form a rose. Place the roses on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

7. Brushing and baking: Beat an egg and brush each rose to achieve a golden and shiny crust. Let them rise for another 15-20 minutes, then place the tray in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 40 minutes or until golden.

8. The final indulgence: Once baked, let them cool slightly before enjoying. You can sprinkle them with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Useful tips

- Goji berries: These small fruits are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. You can substitute them with raisins or dried cranberries for a different variation.
- Rising: Make sure the yeast is active; milk that is too hot can kill the yeast, and milk that is too cold can hinder rising.
- Flavor variations: You can experiment with different flavors, such as vanilla or almond essence, to customize the taste of the roses.
- Serving: This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of fruit tea or a flavored cappuccino.

Nutritional benefits

These cheese and goji roses are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, and goji berries are known for their antioxidant properties, helping to strengthen the immune system and maintain skin health.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with ricotta or mascarpone for a creamier filling.

- What if the dough doesn't rise? Make sure you used active yeast and that the environment is warm. You can try letting it rise in a warmer place or covering it with a warm towel.

- Can I freeze the roses? Yes, you can freeze the roses before baking. Place them on a tray, freeze them, then transfer them to freezer bags. When you want to bake them, let them thaw and then bake according to the instructions.

These cheese and goji roses are more than just a dessert; they are a culinary experience that blends tradition with innovation. Indulge yourself and your loved ones with these fluffy and aromatic delights!