When the cozy vibes of a chilly evening set in, there’s nothing quite like the delightful aroma of freshly baked piroshki wafting through the air. These extra cheesy egg and cheese piroshki are an irresistible treat that transports me straight to the heart of Eastern Europe with every bite. Whether deep-fried to crispy perfection or baked for a lighter option, these fluffy hand pies filled with creamy farmer’s cheese and fresh herbs beckon you to indulge in comfort food at its finest.

I stumbled upon this delightful recipe after a long week of fast food fatigue, craving something homemade that could bring warmth and happiness into my kitchen. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a satisfying breakfast, these savory treasures are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Join me as we embark on a culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds and delight your senses!

Why are Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki so irresistible?

Comforting flavors: Each bite bursts with the delicious fusion of creamy farmer’s cheese and savory eggs, making for a dish that’s utterly satisfying.
Versatile indulgence: Whether you prefer them fried for that crispy crunch or baked for a healthier twist, both options deliver fantastic results.
Simple ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry, making this an easy recipe to whip up on a whim!
Crowd-pleaser: These hand pies are perfect for various occasions, whether as an appetizer at parties or a cozy snack during movie night.
Easy to customize: Feel free to experiment with fillings, like veggies or even a sweet jam, catering to everyone’s preferences.

Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki Ingredients

For the Dough

• Whole Milk – Provides moisture and activates yeast; feel free to use any milk type for similar results.
• White Sugar – Feeds yeast to help the dough rise; can substitute with honey or agave syrup.
• Dry Active Yeast – Leavens the dough; ensure it’s fresh for proper proofing.
• Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough structure.
• Butter (Melted) – Adds richness to the dough; can substitute with vegetable oil for a non-dairy version.
• Large Egg – Provides richness; helps with dough binding.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the dough; bread flour can add a chewier texture.

For the Filling

• Hard-Boiled Eggs (Diced) – The main protein component in the filling.
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the filling; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Mozzarella Cheese (Grated) – Offers stretch and creaminess; use any melty cheese like cheddar as an alternative.
• Green Onions – Provides a fresh flavor profile; substitutes can include shallots or chives.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds a fresh, herbal touch; dried parsley can be used in smaller amounts.
• Fresh Dill – Complements the filling with its unique flavor; substitute with tarragon if unavailable.
• Dried Garlic and Onion Powder – Enhances the filling flavor; fresh versions can be used if desired.
• Sea Salt and Pepper – Season the filling to taste.
• Farmer’s Cheese (Tvorog) – The base of the filling; can use ricotta or cottage cheese if unavailable.

For Frying or Baking

• Canola Oil – Used for frying; olive oil or avocado oil can be alternatives.
• Beaten Egg – Used for egg wash when baking; helps achieve a golden-brown top.

Feel ready to dive into making these delightful Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki? Let the fun begin!

How to Make Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki

Heat the Milk: Begin by heating the whole milk to 120-130°F, ensuring it’s warm but not boiling. Combine the milk with the white sugar and dry active yeast in a mixing bowl; let it sit until bubbly, about 5-10 minutes.
Mix the Dough: Add melted butter, sea salt, and the large egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk well, then gradually incorporate all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and set aside to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (1–1.5 hours).
Make the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Boil the eggs, then cool, peel, and dice them. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced eggs, mayonnaise, grated mozzarella cheese, green onions, parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Shape Piroshki: After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small pieces. Roll each piece into a circle, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and carefully pinch the edges to seal. Allow to proof for another 30 minutes.
Fry the Piroshki: Heat canola oil in a deep pan to 275-300°F. Fry the piroshki in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on a wire rack.
Baking Option: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 350°F. Brush the piroshki with a beaten egg for a glossy finish and bake on a lined baking sheet for 28-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Allow the piroshki to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Optional: Serve with sour cream or applesauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki?

Warm your heart and elevate your dining experience with the perfect sides that complement these delicious piroshki.

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a rich creaminess that balances the savory flavors of the piroshki beautifully.
Applesauce: The sweet and tangy notes of applesauce provide a delightful contrast to the cheesy filling, making each bite more exciting.
Pickled Vegetables: Bright, tangy pickles cut through the richness of the filling, bringing a refreshing crunch that enhances every bite. They add a touch of zest that’s simply irresistible.
Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette brings a fresh, vibrant element to your meal, balancing the comforting richness of the piroshki.
Cabbage Slaw: The crunch and tang of a classic cabbage slaw provide a delightful juxtaposition to the soft and cheesy hand pies, enhancing texture and flavor.
Herbed Yogurt Dip: A herbed yogurt dip infused with fresh dill and chives not only adds creaminess but enhances the flavor profile with freshness, making every bite a joy.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon makes the perfect drink pairing, cutting through the richness and cleansing the palate.
Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of light chocolate cake serves as a sweet, decadent finish, offering a delightful contrast to the savory piroshki and rounding out the meal beautifully.

Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki Variations

Feel free to put your unique spin on this comforting recipe with these delightful twists!

Vegetarian Filling: Substitute diced eggs with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty meatless option. The flavors blend beautifully for a savory delight!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for some heat. Each bite will have a thrilling zing that wakes up your taste buds.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil, chives, or oregano in place of dill or parsley. The choice of herbs can change the profile of the filling remarkably.
Cheesy Twists: Use a blend of cheeses like feta or gouda along with your mozzarella for an extra cheesy flavor. This makes the piroshki irresistibly gooey!
Bacon Lovers: Incorporate crispy crumbled bacon into the filling for meaty goodness. It adds a lovely smoky flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheese.
Sweet Piroshki: For a dessert version, fill the dough with sweetened farmer’s cheese and a bit of vanilla, or even fruit preserves. It’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for brunch!
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure your yeast and other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.
Savory Potato Filling: Mash boiled potatoes with garlic and herbs for a unique filling that’s satisfying and comforting. This alternative makes for a wonderfully hearty twist!

Let your creativity shine and discover your favorite twist on these beloved Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki are perfect for time-crunched cooks who love the savory goodness of homemade food! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe steps to mix the dough, allow it to rise, and then shape the piroshki without frying or baking. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry or bake them as instructed—this way, you’ll have comforting hand pies that taste just as delicious, with the added benefit of saving time for busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki

Perfect Milk Temperature: Ensure the milk is between 120-130°F; too hot will kill the yeast, resulting in flat dough.
Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill the piroshki; too much filling can cause the seams to burst during cooking.
Maintain Oil Temperature: For frying, keep the oil at 275-300°F to achieve a crispy exterior without sogginess.
Proper Cooling: Allow the piroshki to cool on a wire rack post-cooking to avoid steaming and retain a crispy crust.
Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to customize your piroshki by adding sautéed vegetables or different cheeses for a personal touch.
Storage Tips: Store leftover piroshki in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven to maintain their delightful texture.

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki

Room Temperature: Leftover piroshki can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but should be refrigerated afterward to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Store piroshki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing you to easily enjoy these cheesy delights later.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap piroshki tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For the best texture, reheat frozen or refrigerated piroshki in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, restoring their crispy crust and delightful fillings.

Cheesy Egg & Cheese Piroshki Recipe FAQs

What type of cheese can I use for the filling?
Absolutely! While mozzarella cheese is used for its stretch and creaminess, feel free to swap it with any melty cheese you like, such as cheddar or gouda. Each cheese will bring a unique taste profile to your piroshki!

How should I store leftover piroshki?
For optimal freshness, store leftover piroshki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep them delicious for snacking later on. If you need to store them longer, I recommend freezing, which I’ll explain shortly.

Can I freeze piroshki, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your cheesy egg and cheese piroshki! First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each piroshki tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring all air is removed. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy these comforting hand pies at a later date!

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to several reasons. First, check the yeast; ensure it’s fresh and active. If the milk was too hot, it could have killed the yeast. As a tip, always test your yeast by mixing it with warm milk and sugar. If it bubbles after 5-10 minutes, you’re good to go! Make sure to keep the dough in a warm environment, ideally around 75-80°F, while it rises.

Can pets eat piroshki?
It’s best to keep piroshki away from pets. The filling contains ingredients like cheese and herbs that might not agree with their digestive systems. Always consult your vet if you’re in doubt regarding your pet’s diet.

Are there alternatives for making the recipe dairy-free?
Very much so! To make these piroshki dairy-free, you can substitute the farmer’s cheese with a non-dairy cheese alternative or make your own using blended tofu with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Additionally, use plant-based milk and vegetable oil instead of butter in the dough. Enjoy your cooking!