Slovak Easter Bread (Paska)

Slovak Easter Cheese Cake – A Delicious Tradition

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 4 hours
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12

Introduction

Slovak Easter cheese cake, also known as Paska, is an iconic dish that adds a touch of magic to the Easter table. This delicacy combines fluffy sweet bread dough with a creamy cottage cheese filling, resulting in a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also enriches moments spent with loved ones. With deep roots in culinary tradition, Paska symbolizes rebirth and the celebration of life. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing this wonderful recipe.

Ingredients

*For the base dough:*
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (25 g)
- 230 ml warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 250 ml boiled milk
- 200 g sugar
- 800 g flour
- 200 g Koliba butter flavor (or unsalted melted butter)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 3 eggs

*For the cheese dough:*
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (25 g)
- 150 ml warm milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 500 g sweet ricotta cheese (Ricoletka from Koliba)
- 100 g raisins (optional)
- 4 egg yolks
- 200 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 300 g flour

Step 1: Activating the yeast

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, add the yeast cube, warm water, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential for ensuring proper rising of the dough.

Step 2: Preparing the base dough

In a large bowl, add the flour, salt, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the boiled milk and sugar. Then, add the melted Koliba butter flavor. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and smooth, about 10-15 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as this could result in a dense dough.

Step 3: Rising the base dough

Once the dough has been kneaded, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 2 hours or until it doubles in size. It is important to maintain a consistent temperature so that the yeast works properly.

Step 4: Preparing the cheese dough

While the base dough is rising, you can prepare the cheese dough. Activate the yeast in the same manner as for the first dough. Mix the yeast with warm milk and sugar and let it sit for 5 minutes. In another bowl, combine the sweet ricotta, raisins, egg yolks, sugar, salt, baking powder, and flour. Add the activated yeast and mix everything well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Knead the dough lightly, then let it rise for 2 hours, covered.

Step 5: Shaping the cheese cake

After both doughs have risen, take the base dough and divide it into two uneven pieces. Knead the larger piece a bit and shape it into a round ball. The smaller piece will be used for decoration. Surround the base dough with the cheese dough, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Place the cake in a greased pan with Koliba butter flavor and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Step 6: Decorating the cheese cake

Make a braid from the smaller dough and place it on top of the cheese cake. This detail will not only look impressive but will also add a crunchy texture. Brush the cake with a beaten egg yolk to achieve a golden and glossy crust.

Step 7: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cheese cake for 50 minutes or until it is golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. It is recommended to check the baking after 40 minutes, as every oven bakes differently.

Step 8: Serving

Let the cheese cake cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can slice it and serve it on the Easter table. It is particularly delicious alongside a glass of sweet wine or herbal tea. This recipe can easily become a family favorite and an annual tradition.

Helpful tips

- You can add additional flavors, such as lemon or orange zest, for a more intense taste.
- Raisins can be replaced with other dried fruits or nuts, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a chocolate version, you can add chocolate chips to the cheese dough.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of cheese cake contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. The cake is rich in protein due to the cottage cheese and eggs, providing a considerable amount of calcium. Additionally, ingredients like raisins offer antioxidants and fiber.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 7 g of dry yeast and mix it directly into the flour.

2. How can I keep the cheese cake fresh longer?
Store the cheese cake in an airtight container at room temperature. You can use plastic wrap to cover it.

3. Is a gluten-free version possible?
Yes, you can replace regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture and taste may vary.

4. What other recipes can be paired with the cheese cake?
The cheese cake pairs perfectly with fruit pastries or a spring salad.

Now that you have all the necessary information, don't hesitate to try this delicious Slovak cheese cake recipe. Every bite is an explosion of flavors and an invitation to celebrate culinary traditions. Happy cooking and enjoy the moments with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: For the basic dough: 1 cube of yeast, 230 g warm water, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 250 g boiled milk, 200 g sugar, 800 g flour, 200 g Koliba butter flavor, 2 teaspoons of salt, 3 eggs. For the cheese dough: 1 cube of yeast, 150 g warm milk, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 500 g sweet ricotta from Koliba, raisins, 4 egg yolks, 200 g sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 300 g flour.

 Tags:  easter recipes cheese pie easter recipes easter cookies