Cheesy Puff Bites – Fluffy Little Delights ! 🧀

Perfect for a quick snack, these fluffy cheese pastries are a huge hit in our household! I first developed this recipe when Artur, my oldest, was just a toddler, and it quickly became a go-to treat. Now, it’s something we make together, and the delicious cheesy aroma fills the kitchen, drawing everyone in. They’re light, fluffy, and so versatile – great on their own or as little sandwiches, which my husband loves to make.

Ingredients

• 300 g Cow’s milk feta cheese (feel free to mix two of your favorite cheeses)
• 200 g butter
• 500 g flour
• 100 ml warm milk
• ½ teaspoon fresh yeast
• 1 egg

Instructions

1. Start with the Flour

Place the flour in a mixing bowl and create a well in the center.

2. Add Milk and Yeast

Pour the warm milk into the well, add a small piece of yeast, and mix well. Gradually fold in the flour, then add the butter and cheese. The blend of cheeses gives the pastry a rich, comforting flavor, so choose your favorites.

3. Form the Dough

Once the dough comes together, transfer it to a floured surface and knead it by hand. If the dough feels sticky, add a bit more flour until it’s easy to handle.

4. Let the Dough Rest

Fold the dough, cover it with the bowl, and let it sit for 15 minutes. This resting time is key to a soft, fluffy texture.

5. Roll and Fold Again

Using a rolling pin (or a wine bottle in a pinch!), stretch out the dough. Then fold it over again, cover it, and let it rest for another 15 minutes.

6. Shape the Pastry

Roll the dough out once more, then cut it into squares, rounds, or any shapes you like! My kids love making fun shapes, and it’s always a joy to see their creativity. They sprinkle grated cheese on top and, of course, snack on the cheese as they go!

7. Rest Again and Bake

Allow the shaped pastries to rest for another 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 220°C. Bake them for about 30 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

Tips

• Golden Rule: The pastries are usually done when they reach a golden brown color.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses or even add fillings like spinach and ricotta for a fun twist.

The kids adore shaping the dough and sprinkling cheese on top (with a little tasting along the way!). This recipe tends to disappear in one meal in our house, especially with Artur, Matteo, and our little Olivia (or, as we lovingly call her, our “baby Moana”) reaching for seconds.

These cheesy bites are perfect for making lasting memories – whether for a birthday gathering or a relaxed cinema afternoon with everyone’s favorite Disney movies.