My Easter bread
Cottage cheese and raisin Easter bread: the perfect recipe for holidays
Easter bread is a traditional dessert, loved and eagerly awaited every year, especially during the holiday season. This delicious recipe, featuring cottage cheese and raisins, combines the fine flavors of citrus with the fluffy texture of the dough, creating a dessert that will delight every festive table. Whether you prepare it for Easter or just to treat yourself, this Easter bread will turn you into true kitchen masters.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10
Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 2 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 100 g butter
- a pinch of salt
- 25 g fresh yeast
- zest of one lemon
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 220 ml milk
Ingredients for the filling:
- 750 g cottage cheese
- 6 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- zest of one orange
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 300 g raisins
- (For brushing: 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon milk)
- (For the chocolate version: 50 g chocolate + 2 tablespoons cocoa)
Preparing the yeast:
We start with the yeast, an essential step to achieve a risen and fluffy dough. In a cup, rub 25 g of fresh yeast with a teaspoon of sugar until it becomes a paste. Add 2 tablespoons of warm milk and let it rise for 10 minutes until a foam forms. This step will activate the yeast and help achieve a perfect dough.
Preparing the dough:
1. In a bread machine or a large bowl, add the flour, salt, sugar, lemon zest, eggs, and warm milk. Mix the ingredients well.
2. Once the yeast has risen, incorporate it into the flour mixture. Mix everything until you obtain a homogeneous composition.
3. When you finish kneading, remove the dough from the bowl and gradually add the melted butter. Use the folding technique without kneading again; it is essential to keep the air in the dough.
4. After the dough has absorbed all the butter, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface, cover the bowl with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
Preparing the filling:
1. In a large bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar until you obtain a creamy composition. Add the sour cream and cottage cheese, mixing well to avoid lumps.
2. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy and carefully incorporate them into the cheese mixture. This step will add an airy texture to the filling.
3. Add the raisins and orange zest, or melted chocolate and cocoa for the more decadent version. Gently mix to avoid destroying the egg white foam.
Assembling the Easter bread:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a round baking dish lined with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet and use it to line the dish. Shape the edges with a braided motif, which will add a rustic and elegant touch.
3. Let the dough rise for another 20 minutes until it becomes slightly puffed.
4. Pour the filling into the center of the dish and smooth the surface.
5. Mix the egg yolk with the milk and lightly brush the edges of the dough to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.
6. Bake the Easter bread in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and a stick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
Useful tips for a perfect result:
- Make sure the ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs and milk, to activate the yeast more effectively.
- Do not open the oven in the first 30 minutes of baking to avoid affecting the rising process.
- If you want to keep the Easter bread longer, you can freeze it, but it is best enjoyed fresh.
Variations of the recipe:
- Instead of raisins, you can use cranberries or dried apricots for a fruitier note.
- Add chopped nuts or almonds for a crunchy texture.
- Experiment with different flavors, such as cinnamon or rum essence.
Serving suggestions:
Easter bread is served warm or at room temperature, alongside a glass of sweet white wine or a cup of herbal tea. It is also perfect with a spoonful of sour cream on top or with a fresh fruit sauce for a contrast of textures and flavors.
Nutritional benefits:
This Easter bread is rich in protein due to the cheese and eggs, while the raisins add fiber and antioxidants. In moderation, it can be included in a balanced diet, providing energy and essential nutrients.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, but the texture of the Easter bread will be less creamy.
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, use about 8 g of dry yeast, activating it according to the instructions on the package.
- How can I tell if the Easter bread is baked?
Insert a stick in the middle; if it comes out clean, the Easter bread is ready.
This cottage cheese and raisin Easter bread recipe is not just a dessert; it is a true tradition, full of love and memories. Enjoy every bite and share it with your loved ones!
Ingredients: Dough: 500 g flour, 2 eggs, 150 g sugar, 100 g butter, a pinch of salt, 25 g fresh yeast, zest of one lemon, 1 packet of vanilla sugar, 220 ml milk. Filling: 750 g cottage cheese, 6 eggs, 150 g sugar, zest of one orange, 1 packet of vanilla sugar, 3 tablespoons sour cream, 300 g raisins + (1 yolk + 1 tablespoon milk) for brushing + for the chocolate version: 50 g chocolate + 2 tablespoons cocoa.
