Comforting Braided Pastry with Sweet Cheese and Homemade Jam

On days when you need a little comfort, this braided pastry filled with mild cheese and jam of your choice can be a delicious pick-me-up. This easy-to-make treat combines the creamy texture of the cheese filling with the sweetness of the jam, all wrapped in a beautifully braided golden crust. It is perfect to accompany a cup of tea or coffee.

Why you'll love it:

This pastry offers the perfect combination of creamy and sweet, wrapped in a soft, yeasty dough that bakes to perfection. The cheese filling is enhanced with a touch of sour cream and sweetened with sugar, making it irresistibly rich. The homemade jam adds a burst of flavor that complements the creamy filling wonderfully. The braided presentation not only looks impressive, but also ensures that each bite contains the perfect amount of filling and dough.

Perfect occasion:

Perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast, as a comforting snack during a break, or served at a casual get-together with friends and family. It's also perfect for those times when you need something sweet and satisfying to cheer you up.

Decorating Tips:

Before cooking, sprinkle the top of the braid with coarse sugar to add a crunchy texture and a touch of extra sweetness. You can also top with a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze once cooled for a more decadent finish.

Ingredients for the filling:

• 300 g creamy cottage cheese
• 1 egg
• 70 g sour cream
• 50 g of sugar
• 20 g cornstarch

Ingredients for assembly:

• Ready-made dough (yeast or puff pastry works well)
• Jam or preserve of your choice
• 1 egg yolk for brushing

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, egg, sour cream, sugar and cornstarch. Stir until well combined.
3. Spread the dough of your choice on a flat surface. If using yeast dough, make sure it is risen and ready.
4. Cut slits around the edges of the dough, leaving a wide center strip. Place the cheese mixture in the center of the dough. Optionally, add a layer of your favorite jam or keep it on top of the cheese.
5. Braid the dough over the filling, alternately folding the left and right strips into the center.
6. Transfer the braided dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush the surface of the braid with beaten egg yolk to give it a golden finish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the dough is golden and puffy.
9. Let the dough cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy this comforting braided pastry with a cup of hot tea or coffee, perfect to soothe the soul and lift the spirits!