Hungarian Túrós Táska (Sweet Cottage Cheese Pastries)

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Dough

1. Dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar and let stand for 10 minutes.
2. Mix the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, egg yolk, and vanilla.
4. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Cover and let rise for 1–1½ hours, until doubled in size.

Step 2 – Make the Filling

1. Mix the cottage cheese, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla, lemon zest, and semolina.
2. Fold in the raisins if using.
3. Chill while preparing the dough.

Step 3 – Shape the Pastries

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Roll the dough into a large rectangle about 5 mm (¼ inch) thick.
3. Cut into 12 cm (5-inch) squares.
4. Place a generous spoonful of filling in the center.
5. Fold the corners toward the center, leaving part of the filling visible, as shown in the image.
6. Pinch lightly to hold the shape.

Step 4 – Bake

1. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking tray.
2. Brush with beaten egg.
3. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 5 – Serve

Allow to cool slightly and dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips

• Use farmer’s cheese (túró) for the most authentic flavor.
• Lemon zest gives the filling its traditional fresh aroma.
• These pastries are best enjoyed slightly warm with coffee or tea.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition (Per Pastry)

• Calories: ~290
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 10 g