Easter bread
Delicious Cheese Pasca Recipe - A Holiday Delight
Pasca is a traditional dessert, full of flavor and symbolism, often associated with spring holidays. This cheese pasca recipe is easy to make and packed with aromas, perfect for a festive meal or simply to indulge yourself. With a fluffy dough and a creamy cheese filling, this dessert will bring joy and happiness in every bite.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour
- Baking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
- Servings: 12
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1 cube (25 g) fresh yeast
- 250 ml warm milk
- 150 ml oil (preferably sunflower or canola)
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 5 eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 pinch of salt
- Zest of one lemon (for a fresh taste)
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
For the filling:
- 1 kg sweet cheese (preferably cottage cheese or ricotta)
- 5 eggs
- 10 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 100 g raisins (optional, but recommended for added texture)
History of Pasca
Pasca was originally a symbol of rebirth and abundance, prepared for Easter celebrations. It has evolved over time and taken on various forms and flavors, but its essence remains the same: a delicious combination of cheese and dough that evokes family traditions and moments spent together.
Preparing the Dough
1. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the fresh yeast with 2-3 tablespoons of sugar. Add a little flour and warm milk, stirring well until you obtain a smooth paste. Cover with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 10-15 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
2. Mixing the Eggs: In another bowl, separate the eggs. Beat the yolks with a pinch of salt, and beat the egg whites separately with 100 g of sugar until you achieve a firm meringue.
3. Combining the Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour and make a well in the center. Add the risen yeast mixture, warm milk, beaten yolks, lemon zest, and essences. Gently mix the ingredients until well combined.
4. Incorporating the Egg Whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the mixture. This will make the dough fluffy and light. Gradually incorporate the remaining flour, then add the oil. Knead the dough until it easily pulls away from the sides of the bowl. It should be elastic and smooth.
5. Rising the Dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.
Preparing the Filling
6. Mixing the Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sweet cheese with 5 eggs, 10 tablespoons of sugar, vanilla sugar, and raisins (if using). Ensure the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
Assembling and Baking
7. Preparing the Pan: Grease a baking pan with oil. Once the dough has risen, divide it into two parts: one larger for the bottom of the pasca and one smaller for the top.
8. Forming the Pasca: In a pan, spread the larger dough, ensuring it evenly covers the bottom. Pour the cheese filling over the dough and level it out.
9. The Top of the Pasca: With the remaining dough, roll out a thin sheet and place it over the filling, sealing the pasca.
10. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the pasca is golden on top. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the pasca is ready.
Serving
11. Cooling and Slicing: After baking, let the pasca cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with joy!
Serving Suggestions
Pasca is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a cup of warm milk or fragrant tea, and for an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top before serving.
Recipe Variations
To customize this recipe, you can add extra flavors like orange essence or ground nuts to the filling. You can also replace raisins with other dried fruits or chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with goat cheese or mascarpone for a different texture.
2. How can I make the pasca less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or dough, depending on your preferences.
3. Can the pasca be frozen? Yes, the pasca can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Nutritional Benefits
Pasca is a good source of protein due to the eggs and cheese. It also contains carbohydrates from the flour, providing energy. Its delicious taste and fluffy texture make it a favorite dessert, but consume in moderation, considering its caloric content.
Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.
This cheese pasca recipe is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Savor every moment and enjoy every bite!
Ingredients: For the dough: 1/2 kg flour, 1 cube of fresh yeast, 250 ml milk, 150 ml oil, 150 grams granulated sugar, 5 eggs, a pinch of salt, essences, lemon zest, 3 packets of vanilla sugar. For the filling: 1 kg crumbled cheese (sweet), 5 eggs, 10 tablespoons of sugar, vanilla sugar, raisins.
