The beauty of these Flaky Cheese Puffs, or “Pogačice,” lies in their delightful layers of buttery, flaky dough punctuated by pockets of tangy cheese. The combination of feta and butter creates a rich, savory flavor that melts in your mouth with every bite. These puffs are a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, with the golden exterior giving way to a soft, cheesy interior. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or served at room temperature, they make an irresistible snack or appetizer that’s sure to impress any crowd.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 cup feta cheese (or a mix of feta and ricotta)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp sugar
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk the dry ingredients together.
- Add cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Make sure to do this quickly to keep the butter cold.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg and sour cream together until smooth. Pour this mixture into the flour-butter mixture, and mix just until the dough starts to come together.
- Crumble the feta cheese and gently fold it into the dough. Do not overmix; you want to see bits of cheese and butter in the dough to create the flaky texture.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Once the dough has come together, form it into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring the dough stays flaky when baked.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Using a round biscuit cutter or a glass, cut out small rounds (about 2 inches in diameter).
- Place the dough rounds onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between them.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Garnish
- Beat the egg yolk in a small bowl and lightly brush the tops of each dough round.
- Optionally, sprinkle the tops with sesame seeds or poppy seeds for added flavor and crunch.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake the cheese puffs in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack before serving.
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Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Pair them with a salad or soup for a light lunch or dinner.
Storage:
- These cheese puffs can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
Enjoy these delectable Pogačice as a party snack or a comforting homemade treat!
