Cottage cheese cake

Cozonac with cottage cheese: a traditional delicacy

Cozonac with cottage cheese is more than just a simple dessert; it is a true culinary tradition, often associated with holidays and moments spent with loved ones. This recipe reminds us of the joys of childhood and the inviting aroma that filled grandma's kitchen. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into something truly special!

Total preparation time: 3 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 2 large cozonaci

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 700-750 g all-purpose flour
- 200 ml milk (warm)
- 2 packets of dry yeast
- 100 g butter (melted and warm)
- 180 g sugar (or to taste)
- 3 eggs
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar or vanilla essence
- 1 orange essence
- Zest of one orange (or lemon, to taste)
- A pinch of salt

For the cheese filling:
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 5 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 3-4 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 1 orange essence
- Optional: raisins for filling

For brushing:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon sugar

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Activating the yeast: Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and the dry yeast with 100 ml of warm milk. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, until a foam forms. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy dough.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the flour, remaining salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Add the beaten eggs, warm milk, essences, and orange zest. Mix everything with a spatula or wooden spoon until the ingredients start to combine.

3. Kneading the dough: Add the melted, but warm butter, and continue kneading the dough on a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 10-15 minutes, until the dough becomes soft, elastic, and no longer sticks to your hands. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

4. Proofing: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

5. Preparing the filling: In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese with a pinch of salt. Add the eggs, sugar, vanilla sugar, and orange essence. Mix well until you achieve a smooth mixture. If the cheese is too firm, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of semolina or flour to help bind the filling.

6. Shaping the cozonaci: After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first piece of dough into a rectangular sheet. Place half of the cheese filling and carefully roll it up, forming a log. Place the cozonac in a baking tray lined with parchment paper and greased with oil. Repeat the process with the other piece of dough.

7. Second proofing: Let the cozonaci rise in the tray for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

8. Brushing and baking: Beat an egg with a tablespoon of sugar and carefully brush each cozonac. This step will help achieve a golden and shiny crust. Bake the cozonaci in the oven for about 1 hour, or until they are golden and pass the toothpick test (the toothpick should come out clean).

9. Cooling: Once done, let the cozonaci cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Practical tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to facilitate mixing.
- If you prefer a sweeter cozonac, you can add more sugar to the filling or include raisins for added flavor.
- You can experiment with different flavors, such as almond or rum essence, to customize the recipe.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A medium cozonac with cottage cheese contains approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, and eggs provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use higher fat cottage cheese? Yes, but it will affect the texture and final taste of the filling.
- How can I keep the cozonac fresh? Wrap it in a clean towel and store it in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze the cozonac? Yes, the cozonac freezes very well. I recommend slicing it and wrapping it in plastic wrap, then placing it in a freezer bag.

Pair this cozonac with a warm cup of milk or a fragrant cup of tea for an unforgettable culinary experience. You can also serve it with a vanilla sauce or sour cream for added creaminess.

Cook with your heart and enjoy every bite of this cozonac with cottage cheese, a recipe that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 700-750g flour, 200ml milk, 2 packets of dry yeast, 100g butter, 180g sugar (to taste), 3 eggs, vanilla sugar or vanilla essence, orange essence, grated orange/lemon zest (to taste or both), salt. For the cheese filling: 500g cottage cheese, 5 tablespoons of sugar (or to taste), 1 packet of vanilla sugar, 3-4 eggs, salt, orange essence. For brushing: 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of sugar. Optional: raisins for the filling, syrup to pour over the sweet bread after brushing.