Grandma's cheese pies

Grandma's Branzoici: A Childhood Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 branzoici

Introduction

Branzoici with sweet cheese are more than just a simple recipe; they are a warm and loving childhood memory. With every bite, you can taste the authentic flavor of dishes made with love in grandma's kitchen. This quick dessert is perfect for a sweet snack but can also be served as a flavorful breakfast. I invite you to discover how to prepare these wonders step by step, bringing a touch of nostalgia to every preparation.

Necessary Ingredients

To make the best branzoici, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 1/2 cube of fresh yeast (about 20g)
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream
- 1 cup of lukewarm water (about 250 ml)
- Flour as needed (about 500g, for a soft and elastic dough)
- 400 grams of sweet cheese (preferably cow cheese, but you can also use ricotta for a finer texture)
- 2 eggs (at room temperature, for better incorporation into the mixture)
- Lemon essence (optional, but recommended for a fresh aroma)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount to your preference)
- Lard for frying (alternatively, you can use sunflower oil)
- Vanilla sugar for serving
- A pinch of salt

Preparing the Yeast

1. Start by preparing the yeast. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in 50 ml of lukewarm water, adding a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast starts to foam. This is a sign that it is active and ready to use.

Helpful tips: Make sure the water is not too hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast, and the dough will not rise properly.

2. Once the yeast is activated, add the remaining lukewarm water and sour cream, mixing well. Start gradually adding flour, mixing with a spatula or your hands until you get a soft and slightly sticky dough.

Kneading the Dough

3. Knead the dough on a floured work surface for about 10 minutes. The dough should become elastic and homogeneous. This is an ideal moment to connect with the cooking process, reminding you of the times spent in grandma's kitchen.

4. After kneading well, place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in volume.

Preparing the Filling

5. Meanwhile, prepare the cheese filling. In a bowl, add the sweet cheese, the two eggs, sugar, a pinch of salt, and lemon essence. Mix well with a fork or mixer until you get a homogeneous composition. You can adjust the sugar based on how sweet you prefer the filling.

Forming the Branzoici

6. Once the dough has risen, divide it into 10-12 equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each piece of dough into a thin circle, about 10 cm in diameter.

7. Place a generous spoonful of cheese filling on one side of the dough circle, then fold it in half, pressing the edges well with your fingers or a fork to seal the branzoica.

Frying

8. In a deep skillet, heat a few tablespoons of lard over medium heat. Test the temperature with a small piece of dough: if it rises to the surface and starts to sizzle, the lard is ready.

9. Fry the branzoici for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Place them on a plate covered with paper towels to absorb excess fat.

Serving

10. Finally, dust the branzoici with vanilla sugar before serving. They are delicious both warm and cold. You can enjoy them with a cup of warm milk, tea, or coffee for a complete experience.

Variations and Practical Tips

1. For an extra flavor boost, you can add raisins or pieces of candied fruit to the cheese filling.
2. If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the branzoici in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes, brushing the dough with a little oil before baking.
3. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta cheese, to achieve interesting flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

Branzoici are rich in protein due to the cheese and eggs, providing good nutritional value. Additionally, the sour cream adds extra calcium, and the sugar can be adjusted to control caloric intake. A serving of branzoici can contain about 250-300 calories, depending on preparation methods and size.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the proportions indicated on the package. Usually, 1/2 cube of fresh yeast is equivalent to about 7g of dry yeast.

2. How can I store branzoici for longer?
Branzoici can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days at room temperature, or you can freeze them for later use.

3. What drinks pair best with branzoici?
Branzoici pair wonderfully with a fragrant black tea, a cappuccino, or even a sweet wine, depending on your preferences.

Conclusion

Grandma's branzoici are not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that will remind you of the beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Try this simple yet flavorful recipe and let yourself be transported back to childhood. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1/2 cube of yeast, 2 tablespoons of sour cream, 1 cup of lukewarm water, flour as needed, 400 grams of sweet cheese, 2 eggs, lemon essence, 2 tablespoons of sugar, lard for frying, vanilla sugar for serving, salt