The holidays are a time for gathering with loved ones and sharing in delicious treats from around the world. This Christmas, why not bring a touch of Russian tradition to your table with a delightful recipe for Tvorozhnye Pirogi Cheese Tarts? These delicate and creamy cheese tarts are the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them a wonderful addition to any festive spread.
Tvorozhnye Pirogi Cheese Tarts
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 lb farmer’s cheese or ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 egg
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the sour cream to the mixture, stirring until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a muffin tin.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the farmer’s cheese (or ricotta cheese), sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
5. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Use a cookie cutter or drinking glass to cut out circles of dough that will fit into the muffin tin cups.
6. Press each circle of dough into the greased muffin tin cups, forming a small well in the center. Fill each cup with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture.
7. Bake the cheese tarts in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set.
8. Remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, dust the cheese tarts with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
These Tvorozhnye Pirogi Cheese Tarts are sure to become a new holiday favorite in your home. The tender crust paired with the creamy cheese filling creates a delightful combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Serve these tarts as a sweet treat alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee, or enjoy them as a light dessert after a festive meal. Embrace the spirit of the season with this delicious Russian-inspired recipe that is as comforting as it is delicious.
