Mild Ham and Cheese Crescents with Quark Dough

Introduction

These fluffy little crescents are a wonderful snack for active children from three years of age. They are easy for small hands to hold and barely create any crumbs. The quick quark and oil dough requires no yeast, making preparation incredibly simple for parents.

Ingredients

• 150 g plain quark (or thick Greek yogurt)
• 4 tbsp canola oil
• 4 tbsp milk
• 200 g all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 pinch of salt
• 100 g mild cooked ham
• 100 g grated Gouda (or another mild cheese)
• A little milk for brushing

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the quark, canola oil, milk, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
3. Combine the flour with the baking powder, add it to the quark mixture, and knead everything into a smooth dough.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle (about 30 cm in diameter).
5. Cut the circle into eight equal triangles, just like slicing a pizza.
6. Dice the cooked ham finely and distribute it along with the grated cheese on the wide end of each triangle.
7. Roll up each triangle from the wide side toward the tip to form small crescent shapes.
8. Place the crescents on the baking sheet, brush them with a little milk, and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.
9. Let the crescents cool completely and check the temperature inside before serving to your child.

Variations & Tips

• Instead of ham, you can use finely diced bell peppers or grated zucchini to create a vegetarian version.
• The crescents stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for about two to three days.
• They are excellent for freezing. After thawing, you can briefly warm them in the oven to make them crispy again.
• For adults, these crescents taste wonderful with a side of herb cream cheese or a small salad.

Allergy & Safety Information

This recipe contains wheat (gluten) and dairy products (lactose and milk protein). Always introduce new ingredients one at a time and in small amounts to easily observe any potential reactions. Make sure the ham is not too salty, as young bodies cannot process large amounts of salt well. If you have any uncertainties regarding your child's diet, please consult your pediatrician.

Nutrition Information

The quark in this recipe provides valuable protein and calcium, supporting the development of bones and teeth. Canola oil contains healthy fatty acids that are important for your child's growth. Together with the cheese and ham, this creates a satisfying snack that offers long-lasting energy for active days.