Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread)

Introduction

Cheese fatayer, or Middle Eastern cheese bread, is one of those irresistible foods that you simply can’t stop at just one. The soft, slightly crispy dough combined with a savory, cheesy filling creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I recently made these cheese fatayer for a family gathering, and let me tell you, they were a massive hit. From the kids to the adults, everyone loved the pillowy dough and gooey cheese. It’s the kind of dish that feels warm, comforting, and satisfying in all the right ways. Whether you’re having them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a side dish to a larger meal, these little cheese pies have a way of making any occasion feel special.

The best part? This recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers, yet impressive enough for any occasion. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a batch of these cheesy delights that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly. This recipe also offers versatility, so feel free to customize the filling with your favorite cheeses or even add a little spice to kick things up a notch.

Why You’ll Love This Cheese Fatayer (Middle Eastern Cheese Bread)

Cheese fatayer is a true crowd-pleaser, and once you make it, you’ll understand why. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

1. Flavorful Filling – The combination of mozzarella, feta, and a variety of spices like Aleppo pepper and dried mint brings the perfect balance of richness and zest.
2. Buttery, Soft Dough – The dough is soft, slightly chewy, and slightly crispy on the edges. It’s like the perfect crust you want for any pizza or bread.
3. Versatile – You can enjoy cheese fatayer as a breakfast item, a snack, or even as a light lunch. Serve it with a cup of tea for a more traditional Middle Eastern experience.
4. Easy to Make – With a bit of patience while the dough rises, the rest of the process is a breeze. No special skills are required to make this dish!

Ingredients

For the 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

For the 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

For Assembly:

• Milk or heavy cream (for brushing)

Instructions

1. Make the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, instant yeast, lukewarm water, sugar, olive oil, and plain yogurt.
   • Knead the dough using a stand mixer with a hook attachment, or knead by hand for about 2-3 minutes until the dough becomes soft and elastic.
   • If the dough is too sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time until it becomes manageable.
   • Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and set it in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
   • While the dough is resting, mix together the mozzarella, feta, parsley, beaten egg, onion powder, dried mint, Aleppo pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, and nigella seeds in a bowl.
   • Stir the ingredients until the mixture is well combined. Set aside for later.
3. Assemble the Fatayer:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a tight ball.
   • Roll each dough ball into a thin oval or football shape on a floured surface.
   • Spoon a generous amount of cheese filling into the center of each dough oval.
   • Fold over the left and right sides of the dough, pinching the top and bottom edges together to form a boat-like shape.
   • Place the assembled fatayer onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Brush the edges of the dough with milk or heavy cream for a golden, glossy finish.
4. Bake:
   • Bake the fatayer in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese filling is bubbling.
   • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the cheese fatayer warm, straight from the oven. Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for an authentic Middle Eastern experience.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve

Cheese fatayer can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion. Here are some ideas:

• As a Breakfast Treat: Pair your fatayer with a hot cup of tea or Turkish coffee. It makes for a light but filling breakfast.
• As a Snack: Serve them as part of a Middle Eastern mezze platter alongside hummus, baba ganoush, and tabbouleh.
• For Dinner: Serve fatayer with a side of fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a light and healthy meal.
• With Yogurt: Enjoy fatayer with a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess and a tangy contrast to the cheese.
• For Parties: These cheesy bites are perfect for sharing. Serve them at your next gathering as finger food or appetizers.

Additional Tips

1. Dough Consistency: If you find your dough too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour, but be careful not to add too much. The dough should be soft and slightly elastic, not dry.
2. Filling Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Ricotta, halloumi, or cheddar can give the filling a unique flavor twist.
3. Make It Spicy: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
4. Freezing for Later: You can freeze the assembled fatayer (before baking) on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a ziplock bag and store for up to a month. Bake straight from the freezer for 15 minutes at 475°F.
5. Serve with Dips: A refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip or tangy tahini sauce can pair wonderfully with these cheesy treats.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! Feel free to swap the mozzarella and feta for other cheeses like ricotta, cheddar, or goat cheese.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and let it rest in the fridge overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
3. How do I know when the fatayer are done baking? The fatayer should be golden brown around the edges, and the cheese filling should be bubbling. If in doubt, check the bottom of the dough for a crispy golden color.
4. Can I bake these fatayer in a toaster oven? Yes, as long as the toaster oven is preheated to the correct temperature, you can bake the fatayer there. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may vary depending on the oven size.
5. Can I freeze the dough before baking? Yes, you can freeze the dough once it has risen. Shape it into balls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to a month.
6. What can I serve with cheese fatayer? You can serve them with a variety of accompaniments such as a fresh green salad, hummus, baba ganoush, or a cup of mint tea.
7. Is this recipe vegetarian? Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. It can also be adapted for vegans by using plant-based cheese alternatives and egg substitutes.
8. How many fatayer can I make with this recipe? This recipe yields 12 fatayer. You can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings.
9. Can I make this recipe without yogurt? Yes, you can substitute the yogurt with a bit more olive oil or milk if you prefer.
10. How should I store leftover fatayer? Store any leftover fatayer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their texture.

Conclusion

Cheese fatayer is an easy-to-make yet incredibly flavorful Middle Eastern treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving

them as a snack, breakfast, or as part of a mezze spread, these little cheesy pies are sure to impress. The dough is soft and pillowy, while the filling is rich and savory with just the right amount of spice. With this recipe, you can bring a taste of the Middle East right into your kitchen. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, and savor the heavenly combination of buttery dough and gooey, flavorful cheese!

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