If you have yet to discover the joy of flaounes, then get ready to fall in love with the rich, savory-sweet harmony of this delightful pastry. Flaounes: Traditional Cypriot Cheese and Raisin Pastries Recipe brings together crumbly, tangy cheeses with the subtle sweetness of raisins, all wrapped in a golden, sesame-studded crust. This dish is a beloved Cypriot treat, perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave something uniquely comforting and flavorful. Each bite offers a tender, cheesy filling with a fragrant hint of herbs and spices that will have you reaching for seconds before you even realize it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of flaounes lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Each element plays a key role, from the flour that creates the tender crust to the combination of cheeses that bring that iconic Cypriot tang. Every ingredient is essential, working in perfect harmony to deliver that authentic taste and texture you’ll want to savor again and again.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough, providing structure and softness.
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast: Helps the dough rise to a beautifully fluffy texture.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the savory flavors without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, bringing out the cheese and spices.
- 1 cup warm milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough, making it tender.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Gives the dough a silky texture and subtle Mediterranean aroma.
- 5 large eggs (divided): Eggs enrich the dough and act as a binder for the filling.
- 2 cups halloumi cheese, grated: The star cheese, salty and slightly firm, adding that unmistakable Cypriot flavor.
- 1 cup kefalotyri or graviera cheese, grated: Adds depth and a hint of sharpness to the cheese blend.
- 1/2 cup raisins: Bring a touch of natural sweetness, balancing the cheese’s saltiness perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped: Adds a refreshing burst that brightens the filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground mahlepi: A fragrant, slightly nutty spice that gives a warm background note.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mastic: A unique resin spice adding a subtle piney essence.
- 1 cup sesame seeds: Used to coat the edges for a crunchy, nutty finish and beautiful golden color.
How to Make Flaounes: Traditional Cypriot Cheese and Raisin Pastries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper for a non-stick finish. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Adding warm milk, olive oil, and one beaten egg will bring your dough together into a soft, pliable ball. Knead it thoroughly until it feels smooth and elastic — this step is where patience pays off, as it develops the dough’s perfect texture. Cover the dough and let it rise for about an hour until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Cheese and Raisin Filling
While your dough is resting, mix the grated halloumi and kefalotyri (or graviera) cheeses with three beaten eggs, raisins, finely chopped mint, ground mahlepi, and mastic in a separate bowl. This filling is the heart of the flaounes: Traditional Cypriot Cheese and Raisin Pastries Recipe, combining creamy, firm, savory, and sweet elements with fragrant seasonings. Let the filling sit for 30 minutes to let all those flavors mingle beautifully.
Step 3: Shape and Fill the Pastries
Divide the risen dough into about 12 equal balls. Roll each ball into roughly 6-inch circles. The fun begins with shaping these dough rounds — press one side of each circle into the sesame seeds, coating the surface generously. Spoon a hearty amount of the cheese and raisin filling into the center of the dough. Gently fold the edges inward to partially cover the filling, leaving the center exposed. This distinct look is traditional and allows the filling to puff up and shine during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your assembled flaounes onto the prepared baking sheets. Brush them with the last beaten egg, which helps achieve that irresistible golden crust everyone loves. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when they are puffed up and glowing with a gorgeous golden hue. Let them cool slightly before serving so the flavors settle just right.
How to Serve Flaounes: Traditional Cypriot Cheese and Raisin Pastries Recipe
Garnishes
Flaounes are delicious on their own, but a little extra flair makes them irresistible. Dust a touch of powdered sugar over the top for a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory cheese. You can also sprinkle a few fresh mint leaves around your serving plate to hint at the fresh herb inside each bite.
Side Dishes
Serve flaounes alongside a crisp Greek salad or a bowl of tangy tzatziki for a refreshing counterbalance. A glass of robust red wine or fresh orange juice pairs wonderfully, enhancing the flavors and making your meal feel complete and festive.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, arrange flaounes on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small dishes of olives, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. You can also prepare mini-sized flaounes for a party platter, making them perfect finger foods that invite sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any flaounes left after the feast, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy grab-and-go snack or a quick breakfast treat.
Freezing
Flaounes freeze beautifully. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To revive the fresh-baked taste and texture, reheat flaounes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will crisp up the crust while warming the cheesy filling inside perfectly. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the dough rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of halloumi and kefalotyri?
While halloumi and kefalotyri are traditional and give flaounes their unique flavor, you can try substitutes like feta mixed with a firmer cheese such as parmesan. Keep the saltiness and texture in mind to maintain balance.
What does mahlepi and mastic taste like?
Mahlepi offers a sweet, slightly nutty flavor with hints reminiscent of almonds and cherries, while mastic has a subtle piney, resinous taste. Together, they give flaounes an aromatic depth that’s hard to replicate.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, flaounes are vegetarian-friendly as they do not contain meat. However, if you’re avoiding animal rennet in cheese, look for cheeses labeled as vegetarian to be certain.
Can I make flaounes without raisins?
Absolutely! Raisins add a sweet contrast, but you can omit them if you prefer a purely savory pastry or if you’re not a fan of dried fruit.
How long does the dough need to rise?
For the best results, allow the dough to rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This resting time is key to developing a fluffy, tender crust.
Final Thoughts
Flaounes: Traditional Cypriot Cheese and Raisin Pastries Recipe is a true celebration of Mediterranean flavors wrapped up in a warm, golden package. Baking these beauties at home invites you to connect with a rich cultural tradition and create memories with every bite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try — the blend of salty, sweet, and aromatic spices will soon make flaounes one of your go-to favorites to share with family and friends.
Print
Flaounes: Traditional Cypriot Cheese and Raisin Pastries Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cypriot
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Flaounes are traditional Cypriot cheese-filled pastries with a delightful combination of grated halloumi and kefalotyri cheeses, raisins, and aromatic spices like mahlepi and mastic. These golden, sesame-topped pastries are soft, flavorful, and perfect for serving as a savory snack or festive treat.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 large egg (for dough)
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups halloumi cheese, grated
- 1 cup kefalotyri or graviera cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground mahlepi
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mastic
- 3 large eggs (for filling)
Topping
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 cup sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm milk, olive oil, and one beaten egg. Mix all ingredients until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough well until smooth and elastic. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the grated halloumi and kefalotyri or graviera cheeses with the raisins, finely chopped fresh mint, ground mahlepi, ground mastic, and three beaten eggs. Mix thoroughly and let the filling sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Form the dough rounds: After the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a 6-inch diameter circle. Lightly press one side of each circle into the sesame seeds to coat it well.
- Add the filling: Spoon a generous amount of the prepared filling onto the center of the dough circles, on the side opposite the sesame seeds. Fold the edges of the dough inward around the filling, partially enclosing it but leaving the center exposed to showcase the filling.
- Brush with egg wash: Place the shaped flaounes on the prepared baking sheets. Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the exposed dough surfaces to give a beautiful golden finish once baked.
- Bake the flaounes: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the pastries are puffed up and have a golden-brown crust. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- Letting the filling sit for 30 minutes enhances the flavors and softens the raisins.
- You can substitute kefalotyri or graviera cheese with other semi-hard salty cheeses if unavailable.
- Flaounes are traditionally served warm or at room temperature and pair well with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for freshness.
