Recipes

Recipe of Vatrushka, a classic Soviet-era cheese bun popular in school cafeterias and bakeries across the USSR. This soft yeast bun, filled with sweetened farmer’s cheese, was a nostalgic treat for generations. Its round shape with a creamy center made it a favorite for breakfast or afternoon tea.

Cooking Time:
2 hours (including rising)

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
• 2 tbsp melted butter

For the filling:

• 3/4 cup farmer’s cheese or ricotta
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For brushing:

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Recipe:

1. In warm milk, dissolve yeast with 1 tbsp sugar. Let sit 10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, salt, egg, and yeast mixture. Knead until smooth.
3. Add melted butter and knead again until elastic. Cover and let rise 1 hour.
4. Mix all filling ingredients until smooth.
5. Divide dough into 6 pieces. Shape into balls, flatten each slightly.
6. Press the center of each bun with a glass to create a well. Let rise 15 more minutes.
7. Fill each well with cheese mixture. Brush dough edges with beaten egg.
8. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until golden.