Flaons de Morella

Ingredients

• For the crust: For the crust:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 2 cups (500g) fresh cheese (such as ricotta or cottage cheese) 2 cups (500g) fresh cheese (such as ricotta or cottage cheese)
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 27g, 14g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt for the crust. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the mixture, a little at a time, and mix 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 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the fresh cheese, sugar, eggs, and lemon zest for the filling. Mix until well combined and smooth.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut out circles of dough using a round cookie cutter or a glass.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape, and pinch the edges to seal.
7. 7.
   Transfer the filled pastries to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the flaons cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fresh Cheese — Make sure to use a fresh and creamy cheese like ricotta or cottage cheese for the filling. Avoid using aged or hard cheeses as they won't provide the desired texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a citrusy twist, you can add a splash of orange blossom water to the filling.
• Serve the flaons with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
• If you prefer a more savory version, you can add a pinch of salt and some herbs to the filling mixture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese to create unique flavor combinations.
• These pastries are best enjoyed on the day they are made, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Flaons de Morella warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own, but you can also accompany them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Flaons de Morella on a platter or a cake stand, and sprinkle them with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a twist of lemon zest for an elegant touch.