Topfentascherl is a traditional Austrian pastry that is typically served as a dessert or snack. It is made from a soft, creamy cheese filling enclosed in a pastry shell, similar to a turnover or empanada. The pastry is typically flaky and crispy, while the filling is rich and creamy.

Topfentascherl is a beloved pastry in Austria, often enjoyed as a sweet treat or dessert. The pastry is made with a rich and creamy cheese filling that is lightly sweetened with sugar and flavored with vanilla and citrus zest. The dough is buttery and flaky, with a crispy texture that complements the soft filling.

The filling is made with Topfen, a type of soft white cheese that is commonly used in Austrian and German cuisine. Topfen has a mild, tangy flavor and a smooth, creamy texture that makes it perfect for use in pastries and desserts.

To make Topfentascherl, you will need the following

ingredients:

For the dough:

1- 250g all-purpose flour

2- 125g butter, chilled and diced

3- 50g granulated sugar

4- 1 egg

5- 1 pinch of salt

6- 1-2 tbsp cold water

For the filling:

1- 500g Topfen (a type of soft, white cheese)

2- 100g granulated sugar

3- 2 eggs

4- 1 tsp vanilla extract

5- 1 tbsp lemon zest

For the topping:

1- Powdered sugar for dusting

Method:

1- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled, diced butter and use your fingers to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

2- Add the egg and mix until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of cold water.

3- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

4- In a separate bowl, mix together the Topfen, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until well combined.

5- Preheat your oven to 180°C.

6- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 3-4mm. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or a drinking glass.

7- Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto one half of each circle, leaving a border of about 1cm around the edge.

8- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together with a fork to seal.

9- Place the Topfentascherl on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.

10- Remove from the oven and allow the Topfentascherl to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

Note:

1- Topfen can be substituted with cream cheese or ricotta if it is not available in your area.

2- The lemon zest can be substituted with orange or lime zest for a different flavor.

3- You can add raisins or other dried fruits to the cheese mixture for additional texture and flavor.

Serving

Nutrition Facts:

Size: 1 Topfentascherl

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 7g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 105mg

Dough:

250g all-purpose flour:

  - Calories: ~900 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~180g

  - Protein: ~20g

  - Fat: ~2g

  - Sodium: ~2mg

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy, some protein, and small amounts of vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins and iron.
• Culinary Benefits: Forms the structure and base of the dough, giving it stability and texture.

125g butter:

  - Calories: ~900 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~1g

  - Protein: ~1g

  - Fat: ~100g

  - Sodium: ~30mg

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: A good source of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Provides energy and essential fatty acids.
• Culinary Benefits: Adds richness and flavor to the dough, making it tender and flaky.

50g granulated sugar:

  - Calories: ~200 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~50g

  - Protein: ~0g

  - Fat: ~0g

  - Sodium: ~0mg

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: Provides a quick source of energy through simple carbohydrates.
• Culinary Benefits: Adds sweetness to the dough and helps in browning during baking.

1 egg:

  - Calories: ~70 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~0.6g

  - Protein: ~6g

  - Fat: ~5g

  - Sodium: ~70mg

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: Rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals such as vitamin B12, riboflavin, and selenium.
• Culinary Benefits: Acts as a binder, adds moisture, and contributes to the dough's structure.

1 pinch of salt:

  - Negligible caloric value

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: Essential for maintaining proper cellular function and fluid balance.
• Culinary Benefits: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the dough.

1-2 tbsp cold water:

  - Negligible caloric value

benefits:

• Culinary Benefits: Helps bring the dough together without making it too sticky, ensuring a good texture.

Filling:

500g Topfen (soft white cheese):

  - Calories: ~400 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~16g

  - Protein: ~40g

  - Fat: ~24g

  - Sodium: ~800mg

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: High in protein, calcium, and probiotics, which support bone health and digestive function.
• Culinary Benefits: Provides a creamy and tangy base for the filling, contributing to the texture and taste.

100g granulated sugar:

  - Calories: ~400 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~100g

  - Protein: ~0g

  - Fat: ~0g

  - Sodium: ~0mg

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: Provides a quick source of energy.
• Culinary Benefits: Adds sweetness to the filling, balancing the tanginess of the cheese.

benefits:

2 eggs:

  - Calories: ~140 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~1.2g

  - Protein: ~12g

  - Fat: ~10g

  - Sodium: ~140mg

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: High in protein and essential nutrients like choline, which supports brain health.
• Culinary Benefits: Help to set the filling and give it a smooth, custard-like texture.

1 tsp vanilla extract:

  - Negligible caloric value

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: Contains small amounts of antioxidants.
• Culinary Benefits: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the filling.

1 tbsp lemon zest:

  - Calories: ~3 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~1g

  - Protein: ~0g

  - Fat: ~0g

  - Sodium: ~0mg

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: Rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants.
• Culinary Benefits: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens the filling.

Topping:

Powdered sugar for dusting:

  - Calories: ~10 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~2.5g

  - Protein: ~0g

  - Fat: ~0g

  - Sodium: ~0mg

benefits:

• Nutritional Benefits: Minimal, primarily used for decoration and a slight sweetness.
• Culinary Benefits: Adds a decorative finish and a touch of sweetness to the final baked product.

Please note that these values are approximations and should be used as a general guideline. The actual nutritional content can vary based on factors such as specific ingredient brands and preparation techniques. If you require more accurate nutritional information, it's recommended to use a dedicated nutritional calculator or consult a registered dietitian.

The nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the serving size.