Delightful Pastries with Cream Filling

This delightful pastry recipe offers a unique treat that combines a crispy exterior with a luscious creamy filling. It starts with a choux pastry, which forms the light and airy foundation of the dessert. Once baked to perfection, these pastries are sliced in half and filled with a rich mixture of cottage cheese and sweet cream. The blend of textures and flavors makes it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. With a preparation time of just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. The dish is versatile and can be easily customized with additional flavors. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a great choice for a mid-afternoon snack or a post-dinner dessert. Whether you're serving a family meal or hosting a larger gathering, these pastries are sure to impress. Enjoy the process of creating a culinary masterpiece that delights the senses. Let's dive into the process of making these delicious pastries!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 eggs
• 50 g butter
• 360 g of cottage cheese
• 500 g sweet cream
• 250 ml water
• 150 g flour

Spices and Sweeteners

• A pinch of salt
• Sugar (to taste)
• Vanilla sugar

Preparation Time

Total time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: Begin by bringing the water to a boil in a saucepan. Add in the butter and a pinch of salt.
2. Incorporate Flour: Once the butter has melted completely, quickly add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms into a ball and a thin white film appears at the bottom of the pan.
3. Cool the Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes.
4. Mix the Filling: As the base cools, prepare the filling by combining the cottage cheese, sweet cream, sugar, and vanilla sugar in a bowl. Mix until smooth but be careful not to overbeat, which could turn the cream into butter.
5. Add the Eggs: Once the dough has cooled, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The batter should become smooth and glossy.
6. Form the Pastries: Using a spoon or piping bag, place small dollops of dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. The size can vary depending on how large you want your pastries.
7. Bake the Pastries: Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F) and bake for 25-30 minutes. Important: Do not open the oven during the first 15 minutes to prevent the pastries from collapsing.
8. Cool and Fill: Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and cut them in half. Allow them to cool for 10 minutes.
9. Assemble the Pastries: Fill one half of each pastry with the prepared cream mixture and then top it with the other half.
10. Serve and Enjoy: The pastries are now ready to be served. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste!

Tips

• Butter Substitutes: If you prefer, margarine can be used instead of butter.
• Sugar Alternatives: Honey or maple syrup can be a substitute for sugar, providing a unique flavor.
• Heighten Flavor: Add lemon zest to the filling for a refreshing twist.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per piece
• Protein: 3 g
• Fats: 12 g
• Carbs: 15 g

Variations

• For a chocolate version, add cocoa powder to the dough or filling.
• Swap the cottage cheese with mascarpone or ricotta for a creamier texture.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free butter as substitutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with: A strong espresso or an herbal tea.
• Garnishes: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce.
• Side Dishes: Fresh seasonal fruits enhance the dish's flavors.

Best Places

1. Éclair Bakery - Known for its exquisite pastries and delightful ambiance. Location: 130 E 7th St, New York City, USA.
2. La Pâtisserie Parisienne - Offers a taste of France with every bite. Location: 27 Rue de la Paix, Paris, France.
3. Café Rivoire - A classic café with a rich history. Location: Piazza della Signoria, Florence, Italy.
4. Pasticceria Marchesi - Renowned for its traditional pastries. Location: Via Santa Maria, Milan, Italy.
5. Boulangerie Poilâne - A staple for authentic baked goods. Location: 8 Rue du Cherche-Midi, Paris, France.
6. Café Tortoni - The epitome of an Argentine café experience. Location: Avenida de Mayo 825, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
7. Pastéis de Belém - Famous for its delicious pastries in a historic setting. Location: R. de Belém 84-92, Lisbon, Portugal.
8. Ladurée Salon - Offers a luxurious pastry experience. Location: Buckingham Palace Rd, London, United Kingdom.
9. Confeitaria Colombo - A must-visit for anyone in Rio. Location: Rua Gonçalves Dias 32, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
10. Tartine Bakery - A San Francisco landmark known for its mouthwatering delights. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.