Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads with Herb Garlic Sauce

Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads with Herb Garlic Sauce

Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads with Herb Garlic Sauce

Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads with Herb Garlic Sauce

June 21, 2026 by Kimberly

These Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads are my little special version of Turkish pizza: thin, crispy dough, a flavorful beef filling with pomegranate molasses, and fresh toppings like romaine lettuce, bell peppers, tomatoes, red onions, sumac, and parsley. This recipe is perfect if you want to make something special at home, but are looking for a modern, easy, and shareable version. It’s ideal for serving, mixing up the toppings, and using up leftover vegetables.

This website uses affiliate links which may earn commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you.

TOTAL TIME

90 minutes

SERVES

10 flatbreads

DIET

omnivore

EVERY RECIPE DESERVES

A Little Love Letter

We’re not just having Turkish pizza today, we’re having Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads. Small, crispy, savory, topped with sauce, fresh vegetables, and exactly the kind of “I’ll just have one more” energy that, of course, is never actually true.

Making Turkish pizza from scratch had been on my to-do list for ages. Not because you can’t buy it on almost every corner, but because I simply love being able to make these kinds of things myself. Also, lahmacun is genuinely one of the best ways to use up leftover vegetables. A little bell pepper, tomato, lettuce, onion, a few herbs, and suddenly fridge leftovers turn into a special dinner.

The thing I was most curious about was the dough, because this dish really stands or falls with it. And what can I say: it turned out perfect. Super easy to work with. After baking, it gets beautifully crispy on the outside while still staying soft on the inside. Exactly how you want it. And the beef filling? A 10 out of 10. I added pomegranate molasses, which makes the savory, spiced mixture a little fruitier and more rounded.

The best part about the mini version is: you will definitely eat more than one. And that is very much part of the concept here. Each flatbread can be topped a little differently: a little more herb garlic sauce, more sumac, extra tomato, or a little more lettuce. I love dishes that let you try a bit of everything.

And honestly, every now and then I just love a recipe that happens in the oven. The beef mixture is spread onto the thin flatbreads, baked for a few minutes, and then all that’s left to do is top them with sauce, romaine, bell peppers, tomatoes, red onions, sumac, and fresh parsley.

Hi, I'm Kimberly!

Hi, I'm Kimberly.

A hopeless romantic when it comes to food. Every recipe I share is a love letter to food itself. I’m so glad you’re here. Make yourself at home and stay a while.

Love,
Kimberly

Kimberly the Zett Signature

If you want to get to know me better,
click here!

 

 

Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads with Herb Garlic Sauce
Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads with Herb Garlic Sauce
Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads with Herb Garlic Sauce
Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads with Herb Garlic Sauce

LET’S MAKE A PIECE OF HAPPINESS

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Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads with Herb Garlic Sauce

Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads with Herb Garlic Sauce


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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: 10 flatbreads 1x

Description

These Mini Turkish Lahmacun Flatbreads are my little special version of Turkish pizza: thin, crispy dough, a flavorful beef filling with pomegranate molasses, and fresh toppings like romaine lettuce, bell peppers, tomatoes, red onions, sumac, and parsley. This recipe is perfect if you want to make something special at home, but are looking for a modern, easy, and shareable version. It’s ideal for serving, mixing up the toppings, and using up leftover vegetables.

GOOD TO HAVE ON HAND

  • electric mixer
  • rolling pin
  • oven
  • large bowl
  • medium bowl
  • sharp knife
  • cutting board

Ingredients

Units Scale
DOUGH
  • 250 grams all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp instant yeast
  • 125 milliliters lukewarm water
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp yogurt
BEEF FILLING
  • 250 grams ground beef
  • 1/2 red bell pepper
  • 1 tomato
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 tbsp parsley
  • 1 tbsp spicy red pepper paste
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp onion powder
HERB GARLIC SAUCE
  • 100 grams yogurt
  • 100 grams mayonnaise
  • 2-3 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp parsley
  • 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Pinch of sugar
  • Salt & pepper to taste
OTHER INGREDIENTS
  • Milk for brushing
  • All-purpose flour for rolling out
  • Sumac for topping
  • Lemon juice for topping

Instructions

MAKE THE DOUGH

  1. Add the instant yeast, sugar, and olive oil to the lukewarm water and let it bloom briefly. Combine the flour and salt in a bowl and set aside. Then add the yeast mixture together with the yogurt to a large mixing bowl. Add the flour-salt mixture and knead everything for 15 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour by the tablespoon as needed.
  2. Cover the dough in the bowl and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.

MAKE THE MEAT FILLING

  1. In a large bowl, add the ground beef, red bell pepper, tomatoes, parsley, garlic, chili powder, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, onion powder, tomato paste, spicy red pepper paste, and pomegranate molasses. Mix everything well and set aside.

ASSEMBLY & BAKING

  1. Preheat the oven to 250°C/480°F.
  2. Meanwhile, prepare the herb garlic sauce. To do this, mix all the ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
  3. Take the dough out of the bowl and divide it into 10 equal portions. Shape each piece into a tight ball. Using enough extra flour, roll each piece of dough into a very thin circle. Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the meat filling onto each flatbread and press it down well so the meat sticks to the dough. Brush the edges with milk. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are golden brown.
  4. Meanwhile, cut additional bell peppers, tomatoes, romaine lettuce, parsley, and red onions for filling the flatbreads and set aside.
  5. Finally, spread the herb garlic sauce over the flatbreads and top with the vegetables. Finish with sumac, lemon juice and fresh parsley, then enjoy.

  • Prep Time: 1 hr
  • Cook Time: 30 min

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Bakery Style Vanilla Caramel Cookies

Bakery Style Vanilla Caramel Cookies

Bakery Style Vanilla Caramel Cookies

Bakery Style Vanilla Caramel Cookies

May 14, 2026 by Kimberly

These bakery style cookies with vanilla and caramel chocolate are slightly crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfectly chewy. Thanks to a little trick with butter flavoring, they taste like they came fresh from a really good bakery, only homemade. The cookie dough is perfect for making ahead and can be frozen for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy warm, thick chocolate chip cookies straight from the oven whenever you like.

This website uses affiliate links which may earn commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you.

TOTAL TIME

30 minutes + chill time

SERVES

10 cookies

DIET

vegetarian

EVERY RECIPE DESERVES

A Little Love Letter

Out of a million cookie recipes, this is the one I would bake again and again. Truly. Some recipes are good, some are even really good, and then there are these cookies. These thick, soft, slightly chewy bakery style cookies that look like you did not simply bake them in your own kitchen, but like they came from a small, very good bakery where everything is a little too expensive, but you still fall for it every single time.

I have tried so many cookie recipes over the past few years. Some were beautifully crisp like these White Chocolate Coconut Lime Cookies and some wonderfully soft like these White Chocolate Blueberry Cookies & Blueberry Icing. But this recipe feels like another level to me. And the little trick that makes the flavor so special is almost too simple: butter flavoring. Just a few drops and suddenly the dough no longer tastes like regular homemade cookies, but like those really good bakery cookies where you wonder why they taste so much better.

After baking, you can of course decorate the cookies however you like. I drizzled a little more vanilla chocolate on top and used colorful sprinkle pearls.

And the best part is: you can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. That means you can have warm, freshly baked bakery style cookies at home whenever you like, almost instantly.

Hi, I'm Kimberly!

Hi, I'm Kimberly.

A hopeless romantic when it comes to food. Every recipe I share is a love letter to food itself. I’m so glad you’re here. Make yourself at home and stay a while.

Love,
Kimberly

Kimberly the Zett Signature

If you want to get to know me better,
click here!

 

 

Bakery Style Vanilla Caramel Cookies
Bakery Style Vanilla Caramel Cookies
Bakery Style Vanilla Caramel Cookies
Bakery Style Vanilla Caramel Cookies
LET’S MAKE A PIECE OF HAPPINESS
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Bakery Style Vanilla Caramel Cookies

Bakery Style Vanilla Caramel Cookies


  • Author: Kimberly
  • Total Time: 30 min
  • Yield: 10 cookies 1x

Description

These bakery style cookies with vanilla and caramel chocolate are slightly crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfectly chewy. Thanks to a little trick with butter flavoring, they taste like they came fresh from a really good bakery, only homemade. The cookie dough is perfect for making ahead and can be frozen for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy warm, thick chocolate chip cookies straight from the oven whenever you like.

GOOD TO HAVE ON HAND

 


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 115 grams soft butter
  • 90 grams brown sugar
  • 40 grams white sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • a few drops butter aroma
  • 240 grams all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp corn starch
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 100 grams caramel chocolate
  • 50 grams white vanilla chocolate
OPTIONAL TOPPINGS
  • 50 grams white vanilla chocolate for drizzle
  • sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Add the butter to a mixing bowl and beat for about 3 minutes, until pale and fluffy. Add the brown sugar and white sugar and beat for another 1–2 minutes, until creamy.
  2. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and butter flavoring, and mix just until everything is combined. Do not overmix.
  3. Add the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt, and mix briefly until the dough has almost come together. Add the chocolate and mix just until no streaks of flour remain and everything is evenly incorporated.
  4. Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a small cookie scoop, scoop one ball of dough and place it onto the baking sheet. Then scoop a second ball of dough, place it on top of the first one, and press down firmly so the cookies form into little ice cream scoop shapes. Depending on the size, the dough should make about 9–10 cookies.
  5. Place the shaped cookie dough balls in the freezer for at least 3 hours.
  6. Before baking, fully preheat the oven to 190°C / 375°F. Place the frozen cookie dough balls on a baking sheet with enough space between them so they do not spread into each other. I bake 6 cookies per tray.
  7. Bake the cookies for about 12–14 minutes, depending on how browned you like them. Let them cool on the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes.
  8. The cookies can be eaten once they have cooled, but they are especially good if you let them rest in the fridge for a few hours after they have cooled completely. That is when they get that real bakery-style texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 13 min
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
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Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

April 16, 2026 by Kimberly

Since you unfortunately can’t eat fried chicken every single day, here is my favorite everyday alternative: a chicken salad with flavorful, completely fat-free cooked chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, fresh vegetables, creamy ranch dressing, and crunchy tortilla pieces. Quick to make, perfect for meal prep, and anything but boring, this salad is exactly what you need if you are looking for an easy chicken salad recipe that is packed with flavor.

This website uses affiliate links which may earn commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you.

TOTAL TIME

30 min

SERVES

2 people

DIET

omnivore

EVERY RECIPE DESERVES

A Little Love Letter

I’m probably the biggest fan of crispy chicken in every form. Preferably with a really thick, crunchy, fried coating. But in everyday life, it unfortunately can’t be fried chicken every single day, so I had to come up with a version that uses no extra fat at all and still tastes just as good. It may not have that crispy coating, but it makes up for it with the most flavorful, delicious spice coating you could imagine.

And this recipe gets a huge bonus point from me because it fits so effortlessly into everyday life in our home. I make this chicken almost every week anyway and often keep it sliced in the fridge, because we also love using it as homemade deli-style chicken for sandwiches like this Apple Cucumber Brie Turkey Sandwich. That means this salad usually comes together in no time, and that is exactly what I love most about it.

And then you have everything that makes a really good salad: crisp romaine lettuce, fresh vegetables, sweet corn, thinly sliced onion, a creamy dressing, and those golden pan-fried tortilla pieces. Add the flavorful chicken, a little lime juice, and a few flakes of salt, and suddenly it is not just a salad anymore, but a really good example of how delicious a quick meal can be even without fried chicken.

So if you are looking for a salad that is easy, full of flavor, and perfect for prepping ahead, this is one of those recipes you will probably end up making just as often as I do.

Hi, I'm Kimberly!

Hi, I'm Kimberly.

A hopeless romantic when it comes to food. Every recipe I share is a love letter to food itself. I’m so glad you’re here. Make yourself at home and stay a while.

Love,
Kimberly

Kimberly the Zett Signature

If you want to get to know me better,
click here!

 

 

Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing
Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing
Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing
Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

LET’S MAKE A PIECE OF HAPPINESS

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Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing


  • Author: Kimberly
  • Total Time: 30 min
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Since you unfortunately can’t eat fried chicken every single day, here is my favorite everyday alternative: a chicken salad with flavorful, completely fat-free cooked chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, fresh vegetables, creamy ranch dressing, and crunchy tortilla pieces. Quick to make, perfect for meal prep, and anything but boring, this salad is exactly what you need if you are looking for an easy chicken salad recipe that is packed with flavor.

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT

  • plate for marinating the chicken
  • oven
  • sharp knife
  • cutting board
  • large salad bowl
  • small bowl for the dressing
  • small pan for the tortilla pieces

Ingredients

Units Scale
BLACKENED CHICKEN
  • 400 grams chicken breast filet
  • 2 1/4 tsp paprika powder
  • 1 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 tsp oregano, dried
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp curry powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
RANCH DRESSING
  • 100 grams full-fat yogurt
  • splash of milk
  • 3 tsp chives, dried
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp parsley, dried
  • 1/2 tsp dill, dried
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp salt
SALAD
  • romaine salad
  • 1 small cucumber
  • 1 green bell pepper
  • 120 grams corn
  • 1 small red onion
  • 2 tortilla wraps
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C / 345°F.
  2. On a plate, mix together all the spices for the blackened chicken until well combined: salt, oregano, garam masala, garlic, cayenne pepper, curry powder, black pepper, and paprika.
  3. Coat the chicken breast all over in the spice mixture so it is evenly covered. Place it on a baking tray and bake for 45 minutes.
  4. Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool completely. Then slice it into thin strips. You can also make it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge overnight.
  5. While the chicken is in the oven, make the dressing. Mix the yogurt with onion powder, dried parsley, dried chives, dried dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside until ready to use.
  6. Chop the romaine lettuce and wash it well. Slice the cucumber, cut the bell pepper into small pieces, and slice the onion into thin strips. Drain the corn well.
  7. Cut the tortilla wraps into small squares and toss them with a little olive oil, smoked paprika powder, and garlic powder. Fry them in a pan until golden and crispy.
  8. Add the romaine lettuce, cucumber, bell pepper, corn, and onion to a large salad bowl. Pour over the ranch dressing and toss everything together well. Add the crispy tortilla chips and gently mix again.
  9. Slice the cooled chicken breast into thin strips and spread it over the salad. Finish with flaky salt and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
  • Cook Time: 30 min

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Rhubarb Strawberry Almond Galette

Rhubarb Strawberry Almond Galette

Rhubarb Strawberry Almond Galette

Rhubarb Strawberry Almond Galette

May 1, 2025 by Kimberly

It tastes like warm weekends and early summer light. Flaky pastry, buttery almond cream, jammy fruit on top. It’s rustic in the best way. Best served with friends or a spoon.

This website uses affiliate links which may earn commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you.

TOTAL TIME

2 hrs + 40 min

SERVES

8 pieces

DIET

vegetarian

EVERY RECIPE DESERVES

A Little Love Letter

You know those desserts that feel like you didn’t try too hard, but still look like a dream? This is one of them. A buttery, golden crust, soft-set fruit, and the kind of almond cream that makes you wonder why we ever stopped baking with frangipane in the first place. It’s the dessert you make when you’re trying to impress someone (including yourself) without sweating over it. Peak cozy elegance, especially in spring or early summer when berries and rhubarb are at their best.

This tart doesn’t need much, just something creamy on the side to balance the tang and crunch. A scoop of vanilla ice cream? Always. Lightly whipped cream? Also yes. A drizzle of vanilla sauce? Go for it. Serve it slightly warm or at room temp so the flavors can really come through. I like it best the day it’s made, shared at a table that’s maybe still messy from dinner and filled with good company.

Wrap up any leftovers and pop them in the fridge. It keeps well for up to two days, just reheat slightly before serving. And the best part: the crust stays crisp, which honestly feels like a little bit of magic

Hi, I'm Kimberly!

Hi, I'm Kimberly.

A hopeless romantic when it comes to food. Every recipe I share is a love letter to food itself. I’m so glad you’re here. Make yourself at home and stay a while.

Love,
Kimberly

Kimberly the Zett Signature

If you want to get to know me better,
click here!

 

 

Rhubarb Strawberry Almond Galette
Rhubarb Strawberry Almond Galette
Rhubarb Strawberry Almond Galette
Rhubarb Strawberry Almond Galette

LET’S MAKE A PIECE OF HAPPINESS

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Rhubarb Strawberry Almond Galette

Rhubarb Strawberry Almond Galette


  • Author: Kimberly
  • Total Time: 2 hrs + 40 min
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT

  • mixing bowl
  • plastic wrap
  • sharp knife
  • cutting board
  • two small bowls
  • rolling pin

Ingredients

Units Scale
DOUGH
  • 200 grams all-purpose flour
  • 150 grams butter, cold & cubed
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 60 milliliters cold water
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 egg (for brushing the crust)
  • 2 tbsp white sugar (for topping the crust)
ALMOND CREAM
  • 50 grams butter, soft
  • 50 grams brown sugar
  • 70 grams grounded almonds
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
FRUITS
  • 200 grams fresh rhubarb
  • 200 grams fresh strawberries
  • 1 tsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp corn starch
TOPPINGS
  • sliced almonds
  • ice cream, whipped cream or vanilla sauce

Instructions

  1. For the dough, combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the cold butter in small cubes and work it in quickly with your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter throughout. Add the cold water and apple cider vinegar, then bring everything together with your hands until a rough dough forms. Shape it into a rectangle on your work surface, cut it into four equal pieces, stack them on top of each other, gently press together, and wrap the stack in plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for about 45 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, wash the rhubarb thoroughly, peel if necessary, and cut it into finger-length pieces. Depending on your preference, slice them into thin strips or slightly thicker chunks. Toss the rhubarb in a bowl with cornstarch and powdered sugar, then set aside. Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them as well.
  3. Next, prepare the almond cream. Cream the soft butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add the egg, salt, vanilla extract, and ground almonds. Mix until smooth and set aside.
  4. Preheat the oven to 200 °C / 392 °F. Remove the chilled dough from the fridge, let it rest briefly on a floured surface, then roll or press it out into a large, rustic circle using short movements. Don’t worry if the dough tears slightly, this is typical for shortcrust pastry and can be patched with leftover scraps. Gently roll the dough around your rolling pin and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Spread the almond cream evenly over the dough, leaving a border of about 8 cm (3 inches) all around. Distribute the prepared fruit over the almond cream, then fold the edges of the dough over the filling and press them down gently. Brush the crust with oil or a beaten egg, sprinkle with sliced almonds and a bit of sugar, and bake the galette for about 40 minutes, or until golden brown.
  6. Serve best while still slightly warm paired with a scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, or vanilla sauce. I used pistachio ice cream, which pairs beautifully with the almond cream and the tart rhubarb.
  • Passive Time: 1 hr + 40 min
  • Cook Time: 60 min

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Vanilla Cream and Strawberry Jam Streusel Buns

Vanilla Cream and Strawberry Jam Streusel Buns

Vanilla Cream and Strawberry Jam Streusel Buns

Vanilla Cream & Strawberry Jam Streusel Buns

April 16, 2025 by Kimberly

Fluffy, golden buns filled with vanilla cream and strawberry jam, topped with buttery streusel. The kind of thing you’d bring out on Easter Sunday for coffee, cake, and quiet joy.

This website uses affiliate links which may earn commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you.

TOTAL TIME

3 hrs + 30 min

SERVES

12 buns

DIET

vegetarian

EVERY RECIPE DESERVES

A Little Love Letter

These soft, pillowy buns are one of those things that somehow feel both nostalgic and wildly indulgent. We’re talking golden, fluffy dough, a silky vanilla filling, and a bright hit of strawberry jam, all topped with a delicate crumble of streusel. It’s giving cozy Sunday morning, messy counter, and a “just one more” situation. Whether you grew up with German-style sweet buns or not, this combo is the kind of thing that makes you pause mid-bite and just… smile.

These are lovely served warm, when the vanilla cream is still soft and the jam gently melts into the dough. But honestly? They’re just as dreamy cold. Straight from the fridge works, especially with a cup of coffee on a slow morning. Serve them stacked on a brunch platter or individually in cupcake liners for that little bakery moment. Optional, but highly recommended: a dusting of powdered sugar to make them feel extra special.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4.

Hi, I'm Kimberly!

Hi, I'm Kimberly.

A hopeless romantic when it comes to food. Every recipe I share is a love letter to food itself. I’m so glad you’re here. Make yourself at home and stay a while.

Love,
Kimberly

Kimberly the Zett Signature

If you want to get to know me better,
click here!

 

 

Vanilla Cream and Strawberry Jam Streusel Buns
Vanilla Cream and Strawberry Jam Streusel Buns
Vanilla Cream and Strawberry Jam Streusel Buns
Vanilla Cream and Strawberry Jam Streusel Buns

LET’S MAKE A PIECE OF HAPPINESS

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Vanilla Cream and Strawberry Jam Streusel Buns

Vanilla Cream and Strawberry Jam Streusel Buns


  • Author: Kimberly
  • Total Time: 3 hrs + 30 min

Description

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT

  • small saucepan
  • whisk
  • small bowl
  • stand mixer or electric hand mixer
  • plastic wrap
  • rectangular baking dish

Ingredients

Units Scale
DOUGH
  • 250 milliliters full-fat cow milk
  • 7 grams dry active yeast
  • 60 grams white sugar
  • 525 grams all-purpose flour (in Germany 550er)
  • 75 grams butter, soft
  • 1 egg
  • pinch of salt
VANILLA CREAM
  • 200 grams heavy cream
  • 90 milliliters full-fat cow milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 60 grams white sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 20 grams cornstarch
STREUSEL
  • 100 grams all-purpose flour
  • 70 grams butter, soft
  • 70 grams white sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • pinch of salt
OTHER INGREDIENTS
  • 200 grams strawberry jam (homemade or store-bought)
  • confectioners sugar

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, heat the cream with the sugar, vanilla extract, and half of the milk until it comes to a boil. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, egg yolk, and remaining milk. Slowly pour the starch mixture into the boiling cream while whisking constantly until it thickens into a smooth pudding. Remove from heat and let cool completely. Set aside for later.
  2. Gently warm the milk to 38°C / 100°F and stir in the yeast and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let it sit for a few minutes until slightly foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, egg, soft butter, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and knead for about 10 minutes until you get a smooth, soft dough that doesn’t stick. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for 90 minutes.
  3. Combine the butter, sugar, flour, vanilla extract and a pinch of salt and mix until crumbly. Chill the streusel until ready to use.
  4. Once the dough has risen, knead it briefly and divide into 12 equal balls, about 80g / 3oz each. Line a rectangular baking dish with parchment paper and arrange the dough balls inside. Let them rest for 20 minutes.
  5. Use your thumbs and press in the middle of the dough ball to form kind of a bowl shape that is going to be filled each with 1 tablespoon of vanilla pudding and 1 heaping teaspoon of strawberry jam side by side.
  6. Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°Ft. Sprinkle the chilled streusel generously over the buns and bake for about 55 minutes, or until golden. Serve slightly warm or fully cooled—both are delicious. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
  • Passive Time: 3 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 min

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Shichimi Togarashi (Japanese 7 Spice Blend)

Shichimi Togarashi (Japanese 7 Spice Blend)

Shichimi Togarashi (Japanese 7 Spice Blend)

Shichimi Togarashi (Japanese 7 Spice Blend)

April 10, 2025 by Kimberly

Making Shichimi Togarashi at home sounds more complicated than it actually is, because in reality, it comes together in no time. This Japanese seven-spice blend combines chili, sesame, nori, and orange peel into a flavor that’s not just spicy, but also fresh, nutty, and lightly citrusy. Just a pinch is enough to turn everyday dishes into something instantly more exciting. Sprinkle it over dumplings, avocado toast, or ramen, and suddenly it tastes like an evening at a Tokyo street market. That’s the magic of Shichimi Togarashi. A little adventure in your everyday cooking.

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TOTAL TIME

10 min

SERVES

3 tbsp

DIET

vegan

EVERY RECIPE DESERVES

A Little Love Letter

It might sound fancy, but at the end of the day it’s really just a bold, citrusy-spicy topping with a whole lot of personality. Chili with character, toasted sesame, a hint of orange zest. Together they transform “tastes good” into “tastes special.” It’s that perfect balance of fiery, salty, and fresh that makes any dish feel instantly more alive. Almost like bringing street food vibes into your own kitchen, minus the effort and chaos.

I honestly use this spice blend all the time. In my Crispy Pork Gyoza, Miso Ginger Oil Glaze & Fried Seaweed, it pulls all the flavors together like the final brushstroke on a painting. And in my Kimchi Gyoza, it delivers just the right kick that makes my friends and family ask, “Wait, what’s in this?!” That’s my favorite moment when everyone thinks I’ve been fussing with some secret technique, but it was really just a tiny spoonful of this mix. The best part? There’s zero planning involved. A quick sprinkle and suddenly the whole dish feels elevated.

And of course, you’ll want to keep it fresh. I always store mine in a small airtight jar in the pantry. That way, it keeps its full flavor for about two to three months. It’s the kind of simple little habit that makes cooking so much more fun: one unassuming jar on the shelf that has the power to make your food taste ten times more interesting, without you having to lift a finger more than usual. And now, that so-called fancy flavor is just your everyday companion. A jar that started out sounding special and elaborate has quietly turned into the easiest little ritual in your kitchen.

Hi, I'm Kimberly!

Hi, I'm Kimberly.

A hopeless romantic when it comes to food. Every recipe I share is a love letter to food itself. I’m so glad you’re here. Make yourself at home and stay a while.

Love,
Kimberly

Kimberly the Zett Signature

If you want to get to know me better,
click here!

 

 

Shichimi Togarashi (Japanese 7 Spice Blend)
Shichimi Togarashi (Japanese 7 Spice Blend)

LET’S MAKE A PIECE OF HAPPINESS

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Shichimi Togarashi (Japanese 7 Spice Blend)

Shichimi Togarashi (Japanese 7 Spice Blend)


  • Author: Kimberly
  • Total Time: 10 min
  • Yield: 3 tbsp 1x

Description

Making Shichimi Togarashi at home sounds more complicated than it actually is, because in reality, it comes together in no time. This Japanese seven-spice blend combines chili, sesame, nori, and orange peel into a flavor that’s not just spicy, but also fresh, nutty, and lightly citrusy. Just a pinch is enough to turn everyday dishes into something instantly more exciting. Sprinkle it over dumplings, avocado toast, or ramen, and suddenly it tastes like an evening at a Tokyo street market. That’s the magic of Shichimi Togarashi. A little adventure in your everyday cooking.

GOOD TO HAVE ON HAND

  • mortar & pestle
  • sealable jar

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tbsp chili flakes
  • 1 tsp orange zest
  • 1/2 tsp Szechuan pepper corns
  • 1/2 tsp white sesame seeds
  • 1/2 tsp black sesame seeds
  • 1/4 nori sheet
  • 1/4 tsp ginger powder

Instructions

  1. Toast ½ tsp white sesame seeds and ½ tsp black sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant.
  2. Add ½ tsp Szechuan peppercorns and ¼ nori sheet (torn into small pieces) to a mortar and grind them finely, or use a spice grinder if you prefer.
  3. Combine the ground spices with 1 tbsp chili flakes, 1 tsp orange zest, and ¼ tsp ginger powder in a sealable jar. Give it a good shake to mix everything together.
  • Prep Time: 10 min

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