Topfen Zweckerln

There’s something undeniably charming about homemade treats that not only taste delicious but can also bring a sense of warmth and comfort to your home. One such recipe that perfectly encapsulates this sentiment is the delightful Topfen Zweckerln. These Austrian pastries are a delightful blend of creamy cheese, zesty lemon, and a touch of sweetness that make them a perfect indulgence for any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea in the afternoon or as a sweet finish to a cozy dinner, these Topfen Zweckerln are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

**Topfen Zweckerln**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1 cup Quark cheese (or substitute with Greek yogurt)
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cold, cubed unsalted butter. Using your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

2. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk to the flour-butter mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. If the dough seems too dry, you can add a little cold water, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

3. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.

4. While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. In a separate bowl, combine the Quark cheese (or Greek yogurt) with the lemon zest. This creamy mixture will be the flavorful filling for your Topfen Zweckerln.

6. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Using a cookie cutter or a small glass, cut out circles of dough.

7. Spoon a small amount of the Quark cheese filling onto the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over the filling to create a semi-circle shape, then pinch the edges together to seal.

8. Transfer the filled pastries to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.

9. Once baked, allow the Topfen Zweckerln to cool slightly before dusting them generously with powdered sugar. This not only adds a touch of sweetness but also gives them a beautiful finish.

Enjoy these delightful Topfen Zweckerln warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a special treat just for you. The creamy cheese filling paired with the bright citrus notes of lemon creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing. With their flaky pastry exterior and luscious interior, these Austrian pastries are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Treat yourself to a taste of Austria with these delightful Topfen Zweckerln – your home will thank you!