Haliva

Haliva is a traditional Slovak and sometimes also Czech sweet cheese pastry. It's characterized by a dough typically made from flour, yeast, sugar, and milk, which is then filled with a sweet cheese filling. The filling usually consists of a soft cheese, such as farmer's cheese or quark, combined with sugar, egg yolks, and sometimes raisins or lemon zest. The assembled pastries are often brushed with egg wash before baking to achieve a golden-brown crust. Haliva is often made in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small individual pastries to larger round or rectangular forms. It is a popular treat, often served as a dessert or snack, particularly during festive occasions and holidays. Variations in the recipe and filling exist regionally. The term may also refer to similar cheese pastries in neighboring Central European countries.