Airy pastries
Description
Perfectly pairs with tea and coffee. Fluffy "Cream-Cheese" pastries turn out light and airy, even though this isn't puff pastry. This effect is achieved due to equal amounts of butter and cream cheese. The butter helps create a flaky texture, while the cream cheese adds softness and delicate fluffiness. Additionally, cornstarch (potato starch won't work) prevents gluten formation and contributes to the pastry's lightness. The dough requires minimal handling—do not knead it for long or roll it out multiple times, otherwise you won't achieve such an airy texture. If you prefer sweeter pastries, you can dust them with powdered sugar. Follow all the instructions, and you'll end up with incredibly delicious, tender pastries.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1
Cut the cream cheese into pieces, then place in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
Also cut the butter and place it in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- 3
Step 3
Mix the flour with starch, sugar, baking soda, and baking powder, and sift several times.
- 4
Step 4
Add the slightly frozen cheese and butter to the flour mixture.
- 5
Step 5
Mix everything thoroughly until crumbs form. Pour in the kefir and quickly knead the dough.
- 6
Step 6
Roll out the dough into a thick layer of 5-7 cm.
- 7
Step 7
Cut the dough into squares, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 8
Step 8
Place in a preheated oven at 220 degrees for 12-15 minutes. The pastries should turn a beautiful golden color.
- 9
Step 9
When the pastries are baked, take them out of the oven, brush with butter, and serve with tea.