Hungarian Cheese Sticks, known as Sajtos Rúd, are a popular snack that’s perfect for any occasion. These savory, flaky pastry sticks are made with a simple dough and generously sprinkled with grated cheese, making them irresistibly delicious. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re perfect to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a party appetizer.
Here’s how to make Hungarian Cheese Sticks at home:
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 packet dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
¾ cup warm milk
½ cup sour cream
1 egg yolk (for the dough)
⅓ cup butter (melted)
1 ½ cups grated cheese (preferably a hard cheese like edam, cheddar, or hungarian trappista)
1 egg white (for brushing)
Caraway seeds (optional, for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm milk and sprinkle in the dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is activated and ready to go!
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the sour cream, egg yolk, and melted butter. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and stir until the dough starts to come together. Once combined, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
