Cheese and Cottage Cheese Filled Buns

Cheese and Cottage Cheese Filled Buns

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup (200 ml) kefir
• 0.5 cups (100 ml) milk
• 0.5 tsp yeast
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp (20 g) sugar
• 3 cups flour (using a 200 ml cup, about 400 g)

For the Filling

• 100 g (about 1/2 cup) cottage cheese
• 150 g (about 1 1/2 cups) cheese, grated (use your preferred type, like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1 large egg white
• 200 g butter (for greasing and brushing, about 3/4 cup)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Dough

Activating the Yeast
Begin by slightly warming 0.5 cups (100 ml) of milk—it should be lukewarm, not hot. Add 0.5 teaspoons of yeast to the milk, stir to dissolve, and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial for ensuring the dough rises properly.

Mixing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (200 ml) of kefir with 0.5 teaspoons of salt and 1 tablespoon (20 g) of sugar. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture and stir to combine. Gradually add 3 cups (about 400 g) of flour, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. The dough should be pliable and slightly sticky but manageable.

Kneading the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes. Continue kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough back into the bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

Mixing the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine 100 g of cottage cheese with 150 g of grated cheese. Add 1 large egg white to the mixture and stir until everything is well incorporated. The filling should be thick and creamy, perfect for spooning into the dough.

3. Shape the Buns

Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while you shape the buns.

Forming the Dough Balls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove the air. Divide the dough into 15-20 equal portions, depending on your preferred size for the buns. Roll each portion into a small ball, then flatten it into a disc using your hands or a rolling pin.

Adding the Filling
Place a spoonful of the cheese and cottage cheese filling in the center of each disc. Carefully gather the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching them together at the top to seal. Shape the filled dough into a neat bun, ensuring that the filling is fully enclosed.

Arranging the Buns
Arrange the buns seam-side down on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This will help them hold their shape during baking.

4. Prepare the Butter for Greasing

Melting the Butter
Melt 200 g of butter in a small saucepan or microwave. The melted butter will be used to brush the tops of the buns before and after baking, giving them a golden crust and rich flavor.

5. Bake the Buns

If you want a decorative finish, use a sharp knife to gently score the tops of the buns before baking. This will create a unique pattern on the crust.

Brushing the Buns
Generously brush the tops of the buns with the melted butter and use a sharp knife to gently score the tops of the buns before baking. This will create a unique pattern on the crust.

Baking
Bake the buns in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and the cheese filling is bubbling slightly.

6. Serve the Buns

Final Butter Brush
After baking, remove the buns from the oven and brush them again with the remaining melted butter. This final touch adds extra richness and a glossy finish to the buns.

Cooling and Serving
Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, with the cheese filling still soft and melty. These buns make a delightful snack or side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Servings: 15-20 buns
• Calories: 210 kcal per bun (based on 15 buns)
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

These cheese and cottage cheese-filled buns are a comforting and satisfying treat. The soft, fluffy dough encases a rich, cheesy filling that melts in your mouth with each bite. Whether you’re making these buns for a family gathering or as a cozy weekend project, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home.