Juusteles

Juusteles is a type of Estonian pastry, often described as a sweet cheese bread or a cheese-filled roll. The primary ingredient in the filling is typically a sweet, curdled cheese, similar to quark or farmer's cheese. This cheese is usually mixed with sugar, eggs, and sometimes vanilla or lemon zest to enhance its flavor. The dough itself is a soft, enriched yeast dough, similar to that used for sweet buns.

The preparation of juusteles involves shaping the dough, often into a round or oval, and then enclosing the cheese filling within it. Some variations may involve folding the dough over the filling, while others might have the filling swirled into the dough. After shaping, the pastries are usually allowed to rise before being baked until golden brown. A common finishing touch is to brush the baked juusteles with a sugar glaze or egg wash to give them a shiny appearance.

Juusteles are a popular treat in Estonia, frequently enjoyed with coffee or tea, especially for breakfast or as a snack. Their flavor profile is a pleasing combination of slightly sweet, yielding dough and a rich, creamy, subtly sweet cheese filling. While recipes can vary from household to household, the core components of a sweet yeast dough and a curd cheese filling remain consistent. They are a traditional part of Estonian baking culture.