Looking to add a touch of international flair to your Christmas baking repertoire this year? How about trying your hand at making traditional Russian Pirozhki Sweet Filled Pastries? These delectable treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home by the fire. Packed with a sweet filling of jam or fruit, these pastries are sure to delight your taste buds and add a festive touch to your table. Plus, they’re easier to make than you might think! Let’s get started on this delightful recipe.
**Pirozhki Sweet Filled Pastries**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 3/4 cup jam or fruit filling of your choice
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
2. In a separate bowl, warm the milk until it reaches about 110°F (43°C). Sprinkle the yeast over the warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Add the softened butter to the flour mixture and mix until crumbly. Slowly pour in the milk and yeast mixture while stirring continuously to form a soft dough.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a small disc with your hands.
7. Spoon a tablespoon of jam or fruit filling onto the center of each dough disc. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside, shaping them into small round or crescent shapes.
8. Place the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each pastry to allow for rising. Brush the tops with beaten egg wash for a shiny finish.
9. Bake the pirozhki in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
10. Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
Enjoy these Pirozhki Sweet Filled Pastries warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a truly delightful holiday treat that will transport you to the cozy kitchens of Russia. Share them with loved ones or keep them all to yourself—they’re simply irresistible!
Whether you’re celebrating Russian Christmas or simply want to explore new flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Get ready to impress your guests with these homemade sweet treats that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Happy baking!
