Hey, Lykkers! Today, let's dive into a delicious and cozy treat from the heart of Eastern Europe: Vatrushka. This delightful pastry is a warm hug for your taste buds, perfect for a sweet breakfast or an afternoon snack.

It's got a soft, buttery crust and a creamy cheese filling that's just irresistible. Ready to bake up something amazing? Let's get started!

<h3>Vatrushka Recipe</h3>

<b>Ingredients</b>

<b>For the Dough</b>

- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

- ¼ cup sugar

- 1 cup milk (warm)

- 1/3 cup butter (softened)

- 1 large egg

- ¼ tsp salt

<b>For the Filling</b>

- 1 cup farmer's cheese or ricotta

- 1 egg yolk

- 2 tbsp sugar

- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

- ½ cup raisins or currants (optional)

<b>For Topping (optional)</b>

- Powdered sugar for dusting

Vatrushka: the typical sweet buns of Russia to try!

Cookist Wow

<b>Instructions</b>

<b>1. Prep the Dough</b>

In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it's frothy. Add in the softened butter, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until you get a soft dough. Knead it on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until it's smooth and elastic.

<b>2. Let It Rise</b>

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

<b>3. Prepare the Filling</b>

While the dough is rising, mix the cheese, egg yolk, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. If you're using raisins or currants, stir them in as well.

<b>4. Shape the Pastries</b>

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a small circle. Place a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each circle. Pinch the edges of the dough up around the filling to form a little pouch.

<b>5. Bake</b>

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shaped pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for another 15 minutes, then bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they're golden brown.

<b>6. Finishing Touch</b>

Once they're out of the oven, let them cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar if you like.

<h3>Tips for Perfect Vatrushka</h3>

<b>- Warm Milk</b> Make sure your milk is warm but not hot; it should feel like a warm bath. Too hot, and it could kill the yeast.

<b>- Cheese Choice</b> If farmer's cheese is hard to find, ricotta works just fine, though it may need a bit of extra draining to avoid excess moisture.

<b>- Raising the Dough</b> Be patient with rising times. A warm, draft-free area is ideal for the dough to double in size.

These pastries are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on your own with a cup of tea or coffee. The soft, buttery crust paired with the creamy, sweet cheese filling is simply magical. Give it a try, and watch as everyone falls in love with this Eastern European gem.

Happy baking, Lykkers, and enjoy every delicious bite!