Experience the delightful flavors of Kosovo with our exquisite Kosovo Shampita. This creamy dessert is a beloved specialty, featuring layers of light, airy custard and whipped cream, all nestled within a delicate pastry shell. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of sweetness and richness, making it the perfect treat to end any meal or to savor on its own. Whether you're exploring Kosovo's culinary heritage or simply craving a luxurious dessert, our Kosovo Shampita promises to delight your taste buds with every spoonful. Treat yourself to this Balkan classic today!

Ingredients:

For the Pastry Layers:1 package (400g) phyllo dough (filo pastry), thawed if frozen

- 200g unsalted butter, melted

For the Custard Filling:500ml whole milk

- 500ml whole milk

- 100g granulated sugar

- 4 tablespoons cornstarch

- 4 egg yolks

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Layer:300ml heavy cream

- 300ml heavy cream

- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish (optional):Ground pistachios or chopped walnuts

Instructions:

1- Prepare the Custard Filling:

  - In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.

  - Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

2- Prepare the Cream Layer:

  - In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Set aside in the refrigerator.

3- Assemble the Shampita:

  - Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

  - Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.

  - Brush a baking dish (about 9x13 inches) with melted butter.

  - Layer half of the phyllo sheets in the baking dish, brushing each sheet generously with melted butter.

  - Spread the cooled custard filling evenly over the phyllo layer.

  - Cover the custard with the remaining phyllo sheets, again brushing each sheet with melted butter.

4- Bake the Shampita:

  - Using a sharp knife, cut the shampita into squares or diamond shapes before baking.

  - Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

5- Final Assembly:

  - Once baked, let the shampita cool completely in the baking dish.

  - Once cooled, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top layer.

  - Sprinkle ground pistachios or chopped walnuts over the cream for garnish, if desired.

6- Serve and Enjoy:

  - Cut into squares and serve the Kosovo Shampita chilled.

  - Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

This Kosovo Shampita is a wonderful combination of crispy pastry, creamy custard, and fluffy whipped cream—a true delight for dessert lovers!

Nutritional Values :

Nutritional Values (Per Serving, Approximate):

- Phyllo Dough (Filo Pastry):

 - Calories:160

 - Total Fat:1g

 - Carbohydrates:34g

 - Protein:5g

Benefits:

 - Provides carbohydrates for energy.

 - Contains some protein from wheat flour.

- Unsalted Butter (200g for recipe):

 - Calories:1432

 - Total Fat:160g

 - Carbohydrates:0g

 - Protein:1.2g

Benefits:

 - Source of saturated fats and calories for energy.

 - Adds richness and flavor to the pastry.

- Whole Milk (500ml for Custard Filling):

 - Calories:300

 - Total Fat:16g

 - Carbohydrates:24g

 - Protein:*16g

Benefits:

 - Good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D.

 - Supports bone health and provides essential nutrients.

- Granulated Sugar (100g for Custard Filling):

 - Calories:387

 - Total Fat:0g

 - Carbohydrates:99.8g

 - Protein:0g

Benefits:

 - Provides quick energy in the form of simple carbohydrates.

 - Enhances sweetness and flavor of the custard filling.

- Cornstarch (4 tablespoons for Custard Filling):

 - Calories:120

 - Total Fat:0g

 - Carbohydrates:28g

 -Protein:0g

Benefits:

 - Acts as a thickening agent for the custard filling.

 - Gluten-free alternative to flour for thickening sauces.

- Egg Yolks (4 for Custard Filling):

 - Calories:240

 - Total Fat:20g

 - Carbohydrates:2g

 - Protein:12g

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins (including vitamin A, D, E, and B-complex vitamins).

 - Contains healthy fats and proteins.

- Vanilla Extract (for Custard Filling and Cream Layer):

 - Negligible calories and nutrients when used in small amounts.

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor and aroma of desserts.

 - Contains antioxidants and has potential calming effects.

- Heavy Cream (300ml for Cream Layer):

 - Calories:1200

 - Total Fat:120g

 - Carbohydrates:8g

 - Protein:8g

Benefits:

 - High in calories and fats, providing energy.

 - Adds richness and creaminess to the dessert.

- Powdered Sugar (2 tablespoons for Cream Layer):

 - Calories:60

 - Total Fat:0g

 - Carbohydrates:15g

 - Protein:0g

Benefits:

 - Finely ground sugar used for sweetness and texture.

 - Dissolves easily into creams and fillings.

Ground Pistachios or Chopped Walnuts (for Garnish):

 - Calories and nutrients** vary based on amount used, typically providing additional healthy fats and proteins.

Benefits:

 - Adds texture, flavor, and nutrients (such as healthy fats and protein) to the dessert.

 - Contains antioxidants and may offer potential health benefits.

Total Nutritional Values (Approximate, Per Serving):

- Calories:Around 300-400 calories per serving (depending on serving size and specific ingredients used).

- Total Fat:Approximately 30-40g

- Carbohydrates:Approximately 80-100g

- Protein:Approximately 10-15g

These values are estimates and may vary based on specific brands of ingredients and portion sizes used in the recipe. Adjustments can be made based on dietary preferences and nutritional needs.