Sochniki Sweet Cheese Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Filling

01 - 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature
02 - 2 lb farmers cheese
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 cup sugar

→ Dough

05 - 2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature
06 - 3 large eggs
07 - 1/2 cup sugar
08 - 6 cups all-purpose flour (adjust as needed)
09 - 1 tbsp baking powder
10 - 1 tsp salt

→ Topping

11 - 1 egg, beaten
12 - 1/2 cup sugar

# Instructions:

01 - In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix together the cream cheese, farmers cheese, egg, and sugar until smooth and well combined.
02 - Reserve the cheese filling while preparing the cookie dough.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, eggs, and sugar. Whisk together until the mixture is creamy and well incorporated.
04 - Add 2 cups of flour, baking powder, and salt to the butter mixture. Whisk until combined.
05 - Gradually incorporate the remaining flour until a workable dough forms. The dough should be firm but not sticky.
06 - On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to 1/4 inch (6 mm) thickness. Using a round cutter, cut circles approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter.
07 - Place a small portion of the cheese filling on half of the dough circles. Fold the dough over to cover the filling, creating semi-circles. Press edges gently to seal.
08 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the tops of the cookies with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.
09 - Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and crispy around the edges.

# Notes:

01 - Sochniki are traditional Russian pastries with a sweet cheese filling.
02 - Allow cookies to cool completely before serving for best flavor and texture.