Traditional Easter Cake

Traditional Easter cake is an emblematic dessert, full of symbolism and refined flavors, reminding us of the Easter celebrations and the moments spent with loved ones. This recipe combines the aroma of fresh cheese with the fluffy texture of the dough, offering those who savor it an unforgettable culinary experience. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 servings

Ingredients

For the dough (for a 26 cm diameter pan):
- 320 g cake flour
- 100 g sugar
- 100 ml warm milk
- 120 g fresh cow cheese
- 2 egg yolks
- 50 g soft butter
- 1 packet of dry yeast
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Grated zest of one lemon

For the cheese filling:
- 300 g cow cheese
- 1 egg + the two remaining egg whites from the dough
- 3 tablespoons semolina
- 50 g butter
- 50 g sour cream
- 100 g hydrated raisins
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt

Preparing the dough

1. Sifting the flour: In a large bowl, sift the cake flour to remove any impurities and aerate it. This step is essential for obtaining a fluffy dough.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: Add the dry yeast, sugar, and a pinch of salt to the flour. Mix well to combine the ingredients evenly.

3. Preparing the wet mixture: In another bowl, mix the cheese with the egg yolks, soft butter, and warm milk. This mixture will add a delicate flavor to the dough.

4. Forming the dough: Make a well in the flour mixture and pour in the wet mixture. Knead the dough until it becomes dense and elastic, bringing all the ingredients together. If you want a softer dough, add a little warm milk.

5. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes, until it doubles in volume.

Preparing the filling

1. Separating the eggs: While the dough is rising, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Keep the egg whites to beat later.

2. Mixing the cheese: In a bowl, combine the cow cheese with the remaining yolk, semolina, melted butter, sour cream, hydrated raisins, lemon zest, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until you obtain a smooth and homogeneous cream.

3. Beating the egg whites: Using a mixer, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This will give the filling an airy and fluffy texture.

4. Incorporating the egg whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cheese cream using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate them, but to mix with gentle movements.

Assembling and baking the Easter cake

1. Dividing the dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it into three equal parts. One part will be used for the base of the cake, while the other two parts will be braided for the edge.

2. Forming the base: Roll out the first part of the dough into a sheet and place it on the bottom of a baking pan lined with parchment paper.

3. Braiding the dough: Roll out the remaining two parts of dough and braid them to create a beautiful edge around the filling.

4. Adding the filling: Pour the cheese filling into the center of the cake, leveling it evenly.

5. Egg wash: Beat an egg and carefully brush the surface of the cake to achieve a golden crust.

6. Letting the cake rise: Allow the cake to rise for another 15 minutes, during which time preheat the oven. This step will help achieve a fluffy texture.

7. Baking: Bake the cake in the preheated oven at 170 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes, then increase the temperature to 180 degrees Celsius and bake for another 10 minutes, until it becomes golden and well-baked.

Serving the Easter cake

Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving for a festive look. This moist and fragrant cake is perfect to be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. It also pairs wonderfully with a glass of sweet wine.

Nutritional benefits

The Easter cake contains healthy ingredients, such as cow cheese, which is an excellent source of protein and calcium. Semolina adds fiber, while raisins provide antioxidants and vitamins. It is a filling dessert but should be enjoyed in moderation, having approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the specified ingredients.

Possible variations

To customize the Easter cake, you can add different flavors such as almond or rum essence. Additionally, instead of raisins, you can use candied fruits or chopped nuts for a different texture. If you want a vegan version, replace the eggs with banana puree or soft tofu and use vegan butter.

Frequently asked questions

- What can I do if the dough does not rise?
Make sure you are using fresh yeast and that you have left the dough in a warm place, free from drafts.

- Can I freeze the Easter cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

- How can I tell if the cake is baked?
Perform the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, it is ready.

Now that you know how to prepare this traditional Easter cake, don’t hesitate to try it and share it with your loved ones. The time spent in the kitchen will be rewarded with a delicious dessert that will bring joy to everyone’s hearts!

 Ingredients: Dough ingredients (for a 26 cm diameter tray): 320 g flour for sweet bread, 100 g sugar, 100 ml warm milk, 120 g fresh cow cheese, 2 egg yolks, 50 g soft butter, 1 packet of dry yeast, 1 packet of vanilla sugar, a pinch of salt, zest of one lemon. Ingredients for the cheese filling: 300 g cow cheese, 1 egg + the two remaining egg whites from the dough, 3 tablespoons of semolina, 50 g butter, 50 g sour cream, 100 g hydrated raisins, zest of one lemon, two packets of vanilla sugar, a pinch of salt.