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Vatrushka Buns

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Vatrushka Buns are soft Eastern European yeast pastries filled with a creamy sweet cheese center. This traditional Vatrushka buns recipe features fluffy homemade dough and a rich farmer’s cheese filling, making it a comforting treat perfect for breakfast, tea time, or dessert.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast

  • ¾ cup warm milk

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 egg

  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling

  • 1 cup farmer’s cheese or cottage cheese

  • 1 egg yolk

  • 2 tablespoons sour cream

  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.

  • In a large bowl, mix the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter and egg.

  • Pour in the activated yeast mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.

  • Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  • While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing the farmer’s cheese, egg yolk, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

  • Once the dough has risen, divide it into 10 equal portions and shape them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  • Cover and let the dough balls rest for 20 minutes.

  • Use the bottom of a glass or your fingers to press a deep indentation in the center of each bun.

  • Spoon the cheese filling into the center of each indentation.

  • Brush the edges of the buns with beaten egg wash.

  • Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.

  • Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving

Notes

Farmer’s cheese (tvorog) provides the most traditional flavor and texture.Cottage cheese should be drained well before using to avoid excess moisture.You can add raisins or lemon zest to the filling for extra flavor.Brush with light sugar syrup after baking for a shiny bakery-style finish.

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/vatrushka-buns/