Balish, a delightful and versatile pastry, is beloved in many cultures, especially in Eastern European kitchens. Whether it’s filled with walnuts, fruits, or even a creamy cheese filling, the possibilities are endless for customizing this treat to your taste. The dough is rich and buttery, and when paired with a sweet, nutty, or fruity filling, it creates a perfect bite-sized dessert.

Here’s an upgraded recipe for making Balish, combining the best elements from various traditional versions, with updated tips for a smoother, more reliable baking experience.

Dessert Recipe: Balish

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

8 ounces cream cheese full-fat
8 ounces unsalted butter softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Nut Filling:

1 1/2 cups walnuts finely chopped or ground
2 tablespoons milk
1 or 2 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup sugar adjust to taste
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Fruit Filling (Optional)

3 cups fresh fruit apples, berries, or apricots work well
3 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon water
2 teaspoons cornstarch for thickening

For Cream Cheese Filling (Optional)

6 ounces cream cheese softened
1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
3 tablespoons sugar
1 egg yolk

For Assembly:

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together into a soft ball.
Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This resting time ensures the dough firms up and becomes easier to handle.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Nut Filling: In a saucepan, combine the milk, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then stir in the finely ground walnuts. Allow the mixture to cool.
Fruit Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the fresh fruit, sugar, water, and cornstarch. Heat over medium heat until the fruit softens and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
Cream Cheese Filling: Stir together the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, sugar, and egg yolk until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Roll and Shape the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
Use a round cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles (about 2 inches in diameter).
Place a teaspoon of your chosen filling (walnut, fruit, or cream cheese) in the center of each circle.
Pinch the edges together to form a triangle or a half-moon shape. Alternatively, roll the dough around the filling like a cigar for a different presentation.
Arrange the filled pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the pastries for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let the pastries cool on a wire rack.
Step 5: Finish
Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch. Enjoy these little delights with a cup of tea or coffee, or serve them at your next gathering.
Tips and Variations

Dough Texture: If the dough feels too soft after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out. This will make it easier to handle.
Filling Variations: You can substitute the walnut filling with other nuts like pecans or almonds. Jam, preserves, or pie fillings can also be used as alternative fillings for a fruity twist.
Storage: Balish can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

With its rich, buttery dough and the sweet, flavorful fillings, Balish is the perfect pastry to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, special occasion, or just because, these treats are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.