Have you ever craved a delightful pastry that’s both savory and satisfying? Well, let me introduce you to Empada de Queijo Coalho, a delicious Brazilian cheese pastry that will make your taste buds dance! This recipe is not only a fantastic addition to your collection of easy pasta recipes, but it also makes for a perfect treat for quick family dinners or even a cozy weeknight dinner idea. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to whip it up again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy!
• Perfect for quick family dinners or as a snack.
• Easy to make, even for beginners!
• Can be customized with your favorite fillings.
• Great for meal prep and freezing!

Ingredients

To make Empada de Queijo Coalho, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup queijo coalho (or mozzarella cheese), grated
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful pastries!

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, cream cheese, salt, and baking powder. Mix until the dough is smooth and well combined.
2. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect flaky texture!
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough chills.
4. Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles for the pastry base.
5. Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of grated queijo coalho in the center of each circle. You can also add herbs or spices for extra flavor!
6. Seal the Pastries: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
7. Brush with Egg Wash: Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Empada de Queijo Coalho turns out perfectly:

• Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for flaky pastry!
• Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add cooked vegetables for a unique twist.
• If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pastry dough.
• These pastries freeze beautifully, so make a double batch!

How to Serve

Empada de Queijo Coalho is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a light lunch.
• Enjoy them as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
• They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning for a busy week, these pastries are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store them:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Assemble the pastries and freeze them before baking.
• Storage: Store baked pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked pastries for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

So there you have it! A delightful recipe for Empada de Queijo Coalho that’s perfect for quick family dinners or as a tasty snack. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these delicious pastries as much as I do. They’re sure to become a favorite in your home, just like my go-to creamy garlic pasta for 30-minute meals or other weeknight dinner ideas. Happy cooking!