Vatrushka Voyage

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese filling by mixing the farmer's cheese (or ricotta), powdered sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Flatten each dough ball with your palm to create a well in the center. Fill each well with a spoonful of the cheese filling.
9. Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg wash.
10. Bake the vatrushkas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.