There is something truly magical about enjoying freshly baked, warm Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe right out of the oven. This delightful pastry has a wonderful balance of savory cheeses, aromatic herbs, and soft, pillowy dough that melts in your mouth with every bite. The perfect combination of mozzarella and feta cheeses infused with mint, Aleppo pepper, and nigella seeds creates a flavor adventure that makes this Middle Eastern treat an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving these at a family gathering, a casual brunch, or just craving a comforting snack, this Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe will win hearts and leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, readily available ingredients is the first step to creating something extraordinarily delicious. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the distinct taste, texture, and color that define this Middle Eastern cheese bread.
- Mozzarella cheese (3 cups shredded): Provides the gooey, melty texture that’s irresistible in every bite.
- Feta cheese (1 cup crumbled): Adds tanginess and depth, balancing the richness of mozzarella perfectly.
- Parsley (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): Brings a fresh, herbal brightness to the filling.
- Egg (1 large, beaten): Helps bind the filling ingredients together beautifully.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Introduces subtle savory notes without overpowering the filling.
- Dried mint (1 teaspoon): Offers a distinctly Middle Eastern flavor that elevates the cheese mix.
- Aleppo pepper (1 teaspoon): Gives a mild heat and fruity complexity to the filling.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds gentle spice for a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, robust aroma that complements the cheeses.
- Nigella seeds (1 teaspoon): Delivers a nutty crunch and subtle onion-like flavor, enhancing the dough’s topping.
- All-purpose flour (2 2/3 cups plus more as needed): Forms the foundation for the soft yet sturdy dough.
- Salt (1/2 tablespoon): Balances and enhances all the flavors in the dough and filling.
- Instant yeast (1/2 tablespoon): Ensures the dough rises to a perfect, fluffy texture.
- Lukewarm water (1 cup): Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour for tender dough.
- Sugar (1/2 tablespoon): Feeds the yeast and adds a slight hint of sweetness to the bread.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Contributes moisture and a subtle fruity richness to the dough.
- Plain yogurt (2 tablespoons): Creates tenderness and a slight tang, making the crust soft yet resilient.
- Milk or heavy cream (for brushing): Brings a golden shine and delicate crust finish when brushed on before baking.
How to Make Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by activating your yeast in lukewarm water mixed with sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy—this signals a lively dough ahead. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and instant yeast followed by the yogurt and olive oil. Gradually add the yeast mixture and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover it with a damp towel and set it aside to rise for approximately an hour or until it doubles in size, which promises a light and airy bread base.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling
While the dough is rising, combine the shredded mozzarella and crumbled feta in a mixing bowl. Add the beaten egg, parsley, onion powder, dried mint, Aleppo pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until fully incorporated. This filling is bursting with flavor and will be the savory heart of your Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe.
Step 3: Shape the Fatayer
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a circle about 5 inches in diameter on a floured surface. Spoon a generous amount of the cheese filling onto the center of each circle. Fold and pinch the edges into a triangular shape, ensuring all sides are sealed well to keep the filling inside while baking.
Step 4: Add Nigella Seeds and Brush with Cream
Place the shaped fatayer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush each with milk or heavy cream to encourage a luscious golden crust. Sprinkle the nigella seeds over the top for a delightful nutty crunch and authentic Middle Eastern flair. This step makes a big difference visually and flavor-wise in your Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the fatayer for about 15 to 20 minutes until they puff up and turn beautifully golden brown. When you take them out, the aroma will be intoxicating, and the crust will be crisp yet tender. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
How to Serve Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe
Garnishes
To accentuate the fresh, vibrant flavors in the Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe, serve with a scattering of freshly chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or a drizzle of olive oil. These simple garnishes add brightness and an inviting touch to each serving.
Side Dishes
Pair your cheese fatayer with classic Middle Eastern sides like a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad, hummus, or a tangy tahini sauce. These companions add refreshing textures and complement the richness of the cheeses wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Arrange the fatayer in a circular pattern on a large serving platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a few lemon wedges for squeezing. You can also serve them with small bowls of spicy za’atar dip or labneh for dipping, turning your Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe into a vibrant appetizer spread perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cheese fatayer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When stored properly, they maintain their softness and flavor, making for a quick snack or meal addition.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe later, freeze the baked fatayer in a single layer on a baking sheet first until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months, preserving their freshness and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or frozen fatayer in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. This method revives their crisp crust and warm, gooey filling far better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses for the filling?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and feta are traditional and provide that perfect balance of meltiness and tang, you can experiment with cheeses like ricotta, halloumi, or even a bit of sharp cheddar for a twist.
Is it necessary to use nigella seeds?
Nigella seeds add a distinctive flavor and texture, but if you don’t have them on hand, you can omit them or substitute with black sesame seeds for a different but delightful crunch and aroma.
How long does it take to prepare the dough?
The active preparation of the dough is about 15 minutes, but you need to allow the dough to rise for around one hour, which is crucial for that soft and fluffy texture.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. Just allow it to come to room temperature and rise a bit before shaping the fatayer and baking.
Are Cheese Fatayer suitable for freezing before baking?
Definitely. Shape the fatayer, place them on a tray to freeze solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. You can bake them straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Final Thoughts
Making Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience, and once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. The combination of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and bubbling cheese wrapped in delightful dough is simply irresistible. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share the joy of authentic Middle Eastern flavors with friends and family.
Print
Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread) Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 fatayer
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheese Fatayer is a popular Middle Eastern savory pastry filled with a delicious blend of mozzarella and feta cheese, seasoned with herbs and spices, all enveloped in a soft, fluffy dough. These cheese breads are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or part of a mezze platter, offering a delightful combination of melty cheese and aromatic flavors baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Cheese Filling
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried mint
- 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon nigella seeds
Dough
- 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 cup lukewarm water
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
Topping
- Milk or heavy cream (for brushing)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, instant yeast, and sugar. Mix thoroughly. Add the lukewarm water, olive oil, and yogurt, then knead the mixture until a smooth and elastic dough forms. If the dough is sticky, gradually add a little more flour. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for about 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the cheese filling: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, beaten egg, onion powder, dried mint, Aleppo pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, and nigella seeds. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the fatayer: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece out into a small circle about 4-5 inches in diameter. Place a generous spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each circle.
- Seal and shape: Fold the edges of the dough circle inward over the cheese filling to create a triangular or boat-shaped pocket, pinching the edges to seal completely so the filling does not leak out during baking.
- Final rise: Place the shaped fatayer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them lightly and let them rest for 20-30 minutes to rise slightly again.
- Preheat the oven and brush: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of each fatayer with milk or heavy cream to give them a golden, glossy finish during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cheese fatayer in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let them cool slightly before serving warm. These are perfect enjoyed fresh as a snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to salads and dips.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with other melty cheeses such as kasseri or provolone for variation.
- Ensure the water is lukewarm to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- The cheese filling can be adjusted to taste by adding more herbs or spices as preferred.
- For a crispier crust, brush fatayer with olive oil instead of milk or cream before baking.
- Fatayer dough can be made in advance and refrigerated overnight before shaping to save time.
