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Cheese fatayer are perfect for when you crave something savory and comforting with a Middle Eastern flair. These golden pastries are stuffed with a creamy cheese filling and fresh herbs for a snack that’s hard to stop at just one. I have found they are always the first thing to disappear at gatherings and even picky eaters will come back for seconds.
The first time I made these, my kitchen was filled with the scent of fresh bread and toasted cheese. Now my family requests them for every special occasion, and even my youngest helps pinch the pastry triangles together.
Ingredients
- all-purpose flour: adds a light structure to the dough choose unbleached for best flavor
- instant yeast: helps the dough rise and makes it fluffy always check expiration for freshness
- sugar: gives the yeast a little boost and helps browning
- salt: brings out the flavors in both dough and filling use fine sea salt for even distribution
- olive oil: softens the dough and adds delicious aroma go for extra virgin for richness
- feta cheese: delivers a salty tang buy a block and crumble it yourself for best taste
- mozzarella cheese: creates a gooey melt shred it fresh for smooth texture
- fresh parsley: balances the richness of cheese with bright green flavor
- fresh mint: brings a unique twist of freshness skip dried mint—fresh gives better lift
- lemon zest: wakes up the whole filling use a fine zester for more aroma
- egg: helps seal and brown the pastries always use a fresh egg for best shine
Instructions
- Make the Dough:
- Combine warm water with sugar and instant yeast in a small bowl until dissolved. Let it sit for about ten minutes until bubbly to prep the yeast. In a large mixing bowl combine flour and salt. Stir with a fork or whisk to distribute salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Use a spoon or hands to combine until a sticky dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for five to seven minutes until smooth and elastic, adding flour only if needed. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turn to coat, cover, and let rise for thirty minutes until doubled.
- Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, combine crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, chopped parsley, mint, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently so herbs are evenly distributed and the zest is well mixed in.
- Assemble the Fatayer:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the risen dough and divide into sixteen equal pieces. Roll each into a ball. Working with one at a time, roll into a four inch circle, keeping others covered. Add a tablespoon of filling to the center of each circle. Fold dough over filling into a triangle, pinching seams tightly. Place on baking sheet. Beat egg with water and brush tops for a golden finish.
- Bake the Fatayer:
- Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until golden brown. Rotate trays if using two for even baking. Transfer to a rack and let cool three to five minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the fatayer warm while the cheese is stretchy. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or part of a mezze meal.
I never skip the fresh mint in the filling. It lifts the whole pastry to something memorable and always surprises anyone who tries it for the first time. One holiday my niece asked for more and called them cheesy pockets of happiness, which I think sums them up perfectly.
Storage Tips
Store leftover fatayer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to twenty four hours. For longer storage move them to the fridge wrapped in foil or baking paper. They reheat well in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit to restore their crisp edges. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out the cheeses for others you love. I sometimes use a bit of goat cheese for more tang or a very mild cheddar in place of mozzarella. You can also use dried herbs in a pinch but the final flavor will be milder. A vegan cheese blend works too just keep the filling thick to avoid leaks.
Serving Suggestions
Fatayer are delicious on their own or alongside soup or salad. Traditionally they are part of a larger mezze platter with olives, fresh vegetables, and dips like hummus. Serve them with hot sweet tea for a classic Middle Eastern snack.
Cultural and Historical Context
Cheese fatayer are a staple across the Levant with roots in Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian kitchens. Each region has its own small variations in cheese and herbs. They are classic street food, enjoyed during Ramadan or festive occasions at home and for many families are a symbol of hospitality and comfort.
Seasonal Adaptations
add some chopped spring onions with the cheese in spring. incorporate finely grated zucchini or spinach for summer freshness. use a bit of chili for warmth in winter.
Success Stories
My friend once made a triple batch for a school bake sale. They sold out in minutes and she was asked for a dozen personal orders. A neighbor uses the dough for both savory and sweet fillings and swears by its foolproof texture.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Shape and assemble the fatayer but do not bake. Freeze them flat in a single layer then transfer to a freezer bag. Once ready to eat bake straight from frozen adding up to five extra minutes. This makes them ideal for meal prep and lunchbox treats.
Once you master the shape and filling, homemade fatayer will become your go-to for every gathering. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and see how quickly they disappear!
Recipe Q&A
- → What cheeses are used in Cheese Fatayer?
A classic blend of crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella gives a salty, creamy filling.
- → How does the dough get its softness?
Olive oil is added to the dough, contributing to a soft, tender texture once baked.
- → Which herbs add freshness?
Fresh parsley and mint are mixed into the filling, brightening the overall flavor.
- → What makes the top golden and shiny?
An egg wash brushed on before baking delivers a glossy, golden crust.
- → Can Cheese Fatayer be served as an appetizer?
They are perfect warm from the oven as a snack or appetizer for any occasion.