Finnish-style Cheese Pastry

Ingredients

In this Finnish adaptation of Antakya künefesi, we have transformed the sweet and syrupy dessert into a savory pastry. Instead of using shredded phyllo dough and sweet cheese, we have replaced them with a buttery pastry crust and a tangy cheese filling. This adaptation caters to the Finnish taste preferences for savory flavors and adds a unique twist to the traditional dish. We alse have the original recipe for Antakya künefesi, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup (240g) Finnish cheese, such as Leipäjuusto or Aura cheese, grated 1 cup (240g) Finnish cheese, such as Leipäjuusto or Aura cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• Fresh herbs, such as dill or chives, for garnish Fresh herbs, such as dill or chives, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1885 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 30g, 18g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the milk, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. 4.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
5. 5.
   Spread the grated Finnish cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. 6.
   Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges to seal.
7. 7.
   Place the cheese-filled pastry log onto the prepared baking sheet and brush the surface with the beaten egg.
8. 8.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into individual portions.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Finnish cheese — If you can't find Leipäjuusto or Aura cheese, you can substitute it with any other Finnish cheese that melts well, such as Juustoleipä or Oltermanni.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more flavorful pastry, you can add a pinch of dried herbs or spices to the dough, such as thyme or paprika.
• Serve the Finnish-style Cheese Pastry with lingonberry jam or cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
• If you prefer a milder cheese flavor, you can mix the Finnish cheese with some mozzarella or cheddar.

Serving advice

Serve the Finnish-style Cheese Pastry warm as an appetizer or main course. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or pickled vegetables.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as dill or chives, on top of the sliced pastry. Serve it on a platter or individual plates for an elegant touch.