This elegant filling offers a sophisticated balance of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for stuffed pastries, pierogi, or dumplings. Cream cheese provides a smooth, luxurious base that melds beautifully with the chewy texture of soaked yellow raisins and soft, cooked prunes. A splash of cognac adds depth and warmth, while lemon rind and nutmeg brighten the profile. It is an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or special weekend meals where you want to impress guests with homemade, comforting flavors. The combination of textures and tastes makes it a versatile ingredient for various baked goods.
Cheese & Prune Filling
Description
This elegant filling offers a sophisticated balance of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for stuffed pastries, pierogi, or dumplings. Cream cheese provides a smooth, luxurious base that melds beautifully with the chewy texture of soaked yellow raisins and soft, cooked prunes. A splash of cognac adds depth and warmth, while lemon rind and nutmeg brighten the profile. It is an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or special weekend meals where you want to impress guests with homemade, comforting flavors. The combination of textures and tastes makes it a versatile ingredient for various baked goods.Ingredients
Directions
-
Place the yellow raisins in a small bowl and pour the cognac over them. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes to plump up and absorb the flavor.
-
While the raisins soak, take the cream cheese (or cottage cheese) and place it in a mixing bowl. If using cream cheese, ensure it is softened for easier mixing.
-
In a separate small bowl, combine the sugar, flour, egg yolk, melted butter, sour cream, grated lemon rind, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth.
-
Add the wet mixture to the cream cheese and mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and consistent. If using cottage cheese, you may want to blend it first for a smoother texture.
-
Drain the cognac-soaked raisins, reserving any excess liquid if desired for moisture, and fold them into the cheese mixture.
-
In a separate small saucepan, cook the prunes until soft, then pit and chop them finely or grind them in a food processor.
-
Stir the prepared prunes, along with the lemon rind, nutmeg, melted butter, orange rind, crushed walnuts, and sugar into the cheese and raisin mixture.
-
Mix everything well until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
-
Cover and refrigerate the filling for at least 30 minutes before using in your pastry or dumpling recipe to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 236.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20.4g32%
- Saturated Fat 12.6g63%
- Cholesterol 52.2mg18%
- Sodium 193.6mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 7.8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 0.3g2%
- Sugars 6.6g
- Protein 3.8g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.