Penulis Vatrushka is a traditional Eastern European pastry, particularly popular in Russia and Ukraine. It typically consists of a sweet yeast dough filled with cottage cheese or farmers' cheese, often sweetened and sometimes flavored with vanilla or raisins.
The dough is usually shaped into a round or oval form, with the cheese filling in the center. Vatrushka can be enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, and it’s often dusted with powdered sugar before serving.
Vatrushka can vary in size, from small individual pastries to larger ones meant for sharing. The dough is typically soft and slightly sweet, providing a nice contrast to the creamy, tangy cheese filling.
Some variations may include fruit preserves or jams added to the cheese, while others might feature a crumb topping for added texture. In addition to its delicious taste, vatrushka is often enjoyed with tea or coffee and can be found in bakeries and homes, especially during holidays or special occasions.
The pastry reflects the rich baking traditions of Eastern Europe, highlighting the use of simple, wholesome ingredients to create comforting and satisfying treats. Vatrushka also has cultural significance, often associated with family gatherings and celebrations.
It’s common to see variations of the pastry in different regions, with each locale adding its unique twist, such as spices or local cheeses. In recent years, vatrushka has gained popularity beyond Eastern Europe, attracting attention in international bakeries and among food enthusiasts.
Some bakers experiment with the filling, using ingredients like chocolate or seasonal fruits, giving the pastry a modern flair while still honoring its traditional roots. Making vatrushka at home can be a rewarding experience, as the dough is relatively easy to prepare.
The process typically involves mixing the ingredients, allowing the dough to rise, and then shaping and filling it before baking. Many find that the warm, fragrant pastry right out of the oven is a delightful treat that brings back fond memories or creates new ones.
Here’s a simple recipe to make vatrushka:
Ingredients:
For the dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ cup milk (warm)
- ½ cup sugar
- 1/3 cup butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For the filling
- 2 cups cottage cheese or farmer’s cheese
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: raisins or lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Pour in the yeast mixture and knead until you have a soft, elastic dough. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour.
- Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
- In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. You can blend it for a creamier texture if desired. Add raisins or lemon zest if using.
3. Shape the Vatrushka
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal pieces (about 10-12).
- Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a disc (about 4-5 inches wide).
- Make a slight indentation in the center of each disc and fill it with the cheese mixture.
4. Bake
- Place the shaped pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to rise for another 20-30 minutes.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve
- Let the vatrushka cool slightly before serving. You can dust them with powdered sugar if desired.
Enjoy your homemade vatrushka with tea or coffee!
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