Cheese Borekas with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe

If you love a delightful, flaky pastry filled with cheesy goodness and topped with a flavorful crunch, then this Cheese Borekas with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe is exactly what your kitchen has been waiting for. These golden, triangular pockets boast a melty blend of feta and mozzarella cheese wrapped in buttery puff pastry, all crowned with that iconic everything bagel seasoning that adds a burst of savory, nutty, and slightly tangy flavor. It’s comfort food meets a sophisticated snack, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simple list of ingredients fool you; each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and aroma in these savory pastries. The combination of cheeses offers creamy richness, while the everything bagel seasoning provides the captivating topping that makes these borekas truly special.

• 2 sheets puff pastry: This flaky, buttery base is essential for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a briny tang and crumbly texture that contrasts wonderfully with the mozzarella.
• 1 ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings that gooey, melty richness that makes every bite indulgent.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate cheeses.
• 1 large egg (beaten): Binds the cheese filling together for a smooth, cohesive texture.
• 1 egg yolk: Combined with milk for a shiny, golden crust.
• 2 teaspoons milk: Lightens the egg wash to give the pastry that perfect sheen.
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds: A nutty crunch that is a staple in everything bagel seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds: Adds subtle texture and a hint of earthiness.
• ½ teaspoon dried onion flakes: Infuses a mild, aromatic bite into the seasoning mix.
• ½ teaspoon dried garlic flakes: Provides a savory kick rounding out the topping blend.

How to Make Cheese Borekas with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and non-stick baking. This simple prep step sets the stage for perfectly baked borekas.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, thoroughly combine the crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, the beaten egg, and salt. Take a moment to break up any large pieces of feta with a fork to create a uniform filling that melts beautifully inside the pastry.

Step 3: Create the Egg Wash

Beat the egg yolk and milk together in a small bowl. This luscious mixture will be brushed on top of the borekas before baking, lending them a gorgeous golden color and slight crispness.

Step 4: Make the Everything Bagel Seasoning

Combine the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion flakes, and dried garlic flakes. This blend is the star seasoning that will sprinkle over your borekas, giving them their unmistakable flavor profile and delightful crunch.

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Puff Pastry

Lightly flour your work surface and unfold the puff pastry sheets. Roll each out into a 12×12-inch square for evenness. Then, cut each sheet into nine 4-inch squares, creating a total of 18 individual parcels ready to be filled.

Step 6: Fill and Fold the Borekas

Place a heaping tablespoon of cheese filling in the center of each square. Lightly brush the edges with water, then fold each square diagonally to form triangles. Press the edges firmly and crimp with a fork for a tight seal that keeps all that melty goodness inside.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches

Brush each borekas with the egg wash, then generously sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning over the top. These final steps not only enhance flavor but also elevate the visual appeal of your pastries.

Step 8: Bake Until Perfect

Place the borekas onto your lined baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes, or until they are puffed up and a deep golden brown. The filling should be melty and fully cooked. Remove them from the oven and let them cool just enough to enjoy warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Cheese Borekas with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe

Garnishes

To amp up the presentation, try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top before serving. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also add an extra layer of richness and shine, making your Cheese Borekas with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe look almost too good to eat.

Side Dishes

These borekas pair beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. You could also serve them alongside a cool cucumber yogurt dip or a spicy harissa sauce for a flavor contrast that will leave everyone reaching for more.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Cheese Borekas with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe into party bites by cutting the triangles into smaller pieces and serving them on a platter with dipping sauces. Another fun idea is stacking them into a pyramid or placing them in a basket lined with colorful linen for a rustic, inviting display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover borekas, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Their flavor and texture remain fantastic when properly stored, making them a perfect next-day snack or quick breakfast.

Freezing

These pastries freeze beautifully! Arrange the unbaked, folded borekas on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you want to enjoy them, bake from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your borekas into a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and flaky again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the puff pastry soggy and chewy instead of crispy and light.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While feta and mozzarella provide a fantastic balance of saltiness and melt, you can experiment with cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Is it necessary to make the everything bagel seasoning from scratch?

While homemade everything bagel seasoning tastes freshest and allows you to customize proportions, you can use store-bought blends as a convenient shortcut without sacrificing much flavor.

Can I make these borekas gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free puff pastry sheets available at many specialty stores, you can enjoy these borekas without gluten. Just be sure to check all other ingredients to maintain the gluten-free integrity.

What’s the best way to prevent the borekas from leaking filling?

Brushing the edges with water before sealing and crimping firmly with a fork are crucial steps to prevent leakage. Also, avoid overfilling each pastry pocket to ensure a neat and tidy bake.

How do I store leftover everything bagel seasoning?

Keep your homemade seasoning in an airtight jar, stored in a cool, dry place. It will stay fresh and aromatic for at least several weeks, ready to sprinkle on any dish needing a flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

This Cheese Borekas with Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe is one of those comforting yet exciting treats that bring joy to your table and smiles to your loved ones. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create something that looks impressive but feels like a warm hug. Trust me, once you try these flaky, cheesy pockets with their irresistible topping, they’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe box. So, roll up those sleeves and get baking—delicious memories await!

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