Shortcrust pastry, puff pastry (for savory snacks, cheese pies, pastries, etc.) with Philadelphia cheese

Tender Dough with Philadelphia Cheese: A Versatile Base for Unforgettable Delights

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: Depends on usage (enough for 2-3 pies or about 30 crackers)

Introduction: A Story of Flavor and Texture

Do you remember those moments when the pleasant aroma of cheese and butter filled our home from the early hours of the morning? The tender dough with Philadelphia cheese is a recipe that brings together tradition and innovation, providing you with an excellent base for various dishes, whether it's crispy crackers, savory pastries, or delicious pies. Every time you use this dough, you create your own culinary memories, so let's see how you can achieve a perfect texture and unforgettable flavor!

Basic Ingredients: Details and Tips

To achieve the perfect tender dough, you will need the following ingredients:

- 250 g butter (one package) - Choose a high-quality butter with a fat content of at least 80% to ensure a rich texture and intense flavor.
- 250 g Philadelphia cheese (one package) - This creamy cheese adds a special flavor and contributes to the fine texture of the dough. You can also experiment with other types of creamy cheese, but make sure they are at room temperature for easy incorporation.
- 250 g flour - Use good quality white flour with a medium protein content. This will provide the dough with an adequate structure, making it easy to shape.

Preparation Technique: Step by Step

1. Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the soft butter and Philadelphia cheese. You can use a mixer or a spatula to incorporate them well until you obtain a creamy and homogeneous mixture. This is the delicious base of your dough.

2. Adding the Flour
Sifting the flour is an important step to avoid lumps. Gradually add the flour to the cheese and butter mixture. Mix gently with a spatula or by hand until the ingredients are well incorporated and you obtain a homogeneous dough. You will notice that the dough will be slightly sticky, but don’t worry, this is the desired texture.

3. Resting the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. This step is essential as it will help solidify the fats, giving the dough a tender and easy-to-shape texture.

4. Rolling and Cutting
After the dough has rested, take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature to make it easier to roll out. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a sheet about 3 mm thick. Use a knife or dough cutter to cut out the desired shapes.

5. Brushing and Baking
If you want to achieve a golden and appetizing crust, you can brush the surface of the dough with a beaten egg mixture. This step will add a touch of shine and enhance the final appearance of the dish.

6. Temperature and Baking Time
Preheat the oven to 200°C (approximately 380°F). Place the dough shapes on an ungreased baking tray (no need to line it, as the dough is sufficiently fatty) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Practical Tip: Customizing the Dough

To add a touch of originality, you can sprinkle grated cheese, cheddar, or caraway seeds on top of the dough before baking. These will not only enhance the flavor but will also add an interesting texture to each bite.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Each serving of tender dough with Philadelphia cheese has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on how it is prepared and the ingredients added. This dough is rich in healthy fats and proteins, providing a consistent source of energy. Additionally, Philadelphia cheese brings a supply of calcium and essential vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. *What other fillings can I use with this dough?*
You can fill the dough with various combinations, from feta cheese and spinach to sautéed mushrooms or minced meat. Be creative and experiment with the ingredients available!

2. *Can I freeze the dough?*
Yes, the dough can be frozen. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and keep it in the freezer. You can use it later by letting it thaw at room temperature.

3. *How can I serve the crackers or pastries?*
These delicious dishes can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even alongside a warm soup. A recommended drink would be a dry white wine or a fresh lemonade, which will perfectly complement the savory flavors.

Vegan Option

If you want a vegan version, you can replace the butter with vegetable margarine and the Philadelphia cheese with a plant-based alternative. The result will be just as delicious, maintaining its tender texture and flavors!

Conclusion: A Recipe for Sweet Memories

This tender dough with Philadelphia cheese is more than just a simple recipe; it is an invitation to explore, experiment, and create unforgettable moments in the kitchen. Whether you choose to use it for crackers, pastries, or pies, I assure you that each bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So, put on your apron and let's get cooking!