Greek Cheese Filled Buns: These are addictive!

feta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Cottage cheese is lower in fat while still providing creaminess.

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: bread flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil is healthier but canola is more affordable.

ricotta cheese

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

Activate yeast by mixing 2 cups lukewarm water, 2 teaspoons sugar, 1.5 teaspoons yeast, and 0.25 cup flour in a bowl; let sit for 8-10 minutes until frothy.

In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1.5 teaspoons of salt.

Add 0.25 cup of extra virgin olive oil and the activated yeast mixture to the flour; mix until a dough forms.

Knead the dough for 10 minutes using a mixer with a dough hook or 15 minutes by hand until smooth.

Grease a bowl with olive oil, transfer the dough to the bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in volume.

Prepare the filling by mixing 4 ounces of kefalo graviera cheese, 6 ounces of crumbled feta cheese, and a handful of chopped fresh parsley in a bowl.

Once the dough has risen, cut it into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a round ball, then flatten into a circle about 4 inches in diameter.

Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle, gather the edges towards the center, pinch to seal, and shape into a bun.

Line two baking trays with parchment paper and optionally sprinkle with semolina flour.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Let the buns rise for about 25 minutes on the stove top, covered with a towel, until slightly puffed.

Melt 2 ounces of salted butter and mix with 1-2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream or milk; brush this mixture over the tops and sides of the buns.

Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the buns if desired.

Bake the buns for 25-30 minutes until golden brown, then cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens