This easy recipe for Cottage Cheese Cookies delivers soft, fluffy treats with a delightful tang from the cheese and a subtle buttery flavor. These cookies, shaped like little “hedgehogs,” are perfect for a snack or dessert that feels both homey and indulgent.
Ingredients
- Cottage Cheese: 200-220 g (7-7.8 oz)
- Butter: 90 g (6 tablespoons), softened
- Flour: 170 g (1 1/3 cups)
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: A pinch
- Vanillin: A pinch (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract for added flavor)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
- Combine the Cheese and Butter: In a medium bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the softened butter. Add a pinch of salt and vanillin (or vanilla extract). Mix thoroughly until well combined, creating a creamy base for the dough.
- Add Flour and Baking Powder: Gradually sift in the flour and baking powder into the cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine, then knead the mixture into a soft, elastic dough. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Wrap the Dough: Place the dough onto a sheet of plastic wrap (cellophane). Spread it into a thick layer using your hands, then wrap it tightly.
- Refrigerate: Let the dough rest in the refrigerator for 40 minutes. This step helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and shape.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
- Grate the Dough: After chilling, take the dough out of the refrigerator. Using a large grater, grate the dough into shreds. This creates the fun, textured appearance of the “hedgehogs.”
- Form the Cookies: Gather the grated dough into small lumps or mounds, gently shaping them into cookie-sized portions.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Arrange the Cookies: Place the shaped cookies onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. If you like, sprinkle the tops with a bit of sugar for added sweetness and a slight crunch.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Enjoy your cottage cheese cookies with a cup of tea or coffee. They are best served fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips and Variations
- For Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
- Add-ins: Incorporate raisins, dried cranberries, or small chocolate chips for a bit of variety.
- Sugar Coating: For a more traditional touch, roll the dough balls in sugar before baking for a sweet, crunchy exterior.
Enjoy these Cottage Cheese Cookies that are not only delicious but also easy to make, bringing the comfort of homemade treats right to your kitchen!
