Description
These crispy Hungarian potato cheese sticks, known as sajtos rudak, are a beloved savory snack made from mashed potatoes, cheese, and a buttery dough. Baked until golden and flaky, they’re perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or comforting side dish with soups and stews.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1 cup mashed potatoes (cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or sharp Hungarian cheese like Trappista)
- 1 egg (for dough)
Topping
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Caraway seeds or sesame seeds (optional topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Add the cooled mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, and the beaten egg. Knead everything together until a soft and smooth dough forms.
- Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to firm up, which makes it easier to roll out.
- Preheat the oven and prep baking sheet: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Roll and cut the dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into strips approximately ¾ inch wide and 3 inches long, forming the sticks.
- Brush and top: Place the sticks on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with milk. Brush this mixture over each stick to give a glossy, golden finish. Optionally, sprinkle with caraway or sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake the sticks: Bake the sticks in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and serve: Allow the sticks to cool slightly on a rack before serving. Enjoy as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Notes
- These cheese sticks can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking for convenience.
- Try swapping the cheese for a spicier variety or adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the dough for flavor variations.
- Serve with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra tasty experience.