Cretan Cheese-Cinnamon Pastries
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* 1 1/2 c Fresh mizithra or ricotta
* 2 c All-purpose flour
* 2 tb Grated hard ricotta
* 1 pn Salt
* 2 eggs; separated
* 1 ts Vanilla extract
* 1/2 c Granulated sugar
* Confectioners’ sugar
* 2 tb Butter; melted
* 4 tb Milk (or more)
METHOD
For the filling, combine the cheeses, lightly beaten egg yolks, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl. The mixture should be thick enough to mound, but not stiff; add 1 tablespoon milk, if necessary. Set aside while you make the dough. Sift the flour and salt into a bowl, then cut in the butter and mix by rubbing between your fingers. Mix in the vanilla, egg whites, and enough milk to make a soft dough. Knead until smooth and elastic, then break off small pieces and roll as thin of a dime. (The dough will be elastic and can be rolled easily.) Cut into circles 4-inches in diameter (teacup size), then on each circle place a teaspoon of the cheese filling. Wet the circle edge with water or milk and fold over to form a half-moon, then seal with the tines of a fork or pastry wheel. Arrange the Kaltsounia on buttered cookie sheets and bake in a moderate oven (350 F) for 25 minutes, or until the pastry puffs up and turns a light chestnut color. Remove from the oven, and place on racks, and dust with confectioners’ sugar and cinnamon. Serve hot or cold.



