Traditional Easter cake with cheese and sour cream
Traditional Easter Cheese and Sour Cream Pastry
Every year, the Easter celebration brings not only joy and family reunions but also a rich culinary tradition. Pasca is one of the most beloved festive desserts, with a recipe that varies from region to region, but the essence remains the same: a delicious combination of fluffy dough and cheese filling.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
*For the dough:*
- 1 kg flour (plus a little extra for kneading)
- 500 g sugar
- 100 g butter
- 100 g palm oil
- 400 g yogurt
- 6 eggs
- Flavors: 1 packet of vanilla, zest of 1 orange, zest of 1 lemon
- 2 packets of dry yeast
- A pinch of salt
*For the cheese cream:*
- 1 kg cottage cheese
- 500 g sour cream (ideally higher fat)
- 5 tablespoons semolina
- 7 eggs
- 400 g sugar
- Flavors: zest of 1 orange, 1 packet of vanilla, 1 tablespoon rum essence
- A pinch of salt
History of Pasca
Pasca is a symbolic dessert associated with Easter celebrations, with deep roots in culinary traditions. Its origin is believed to come from spring customs when people would prepare bread from fresh ingredients to celebrate the revival of nature. Thus, pasca has become a symbol of rebirth, new life, and joy.
Preparing Pasca
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Before starting, it is important to let all ingredients sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps activate the yeast and achieve a fluffy dough.
2. Kneading the Dough
Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl. In another bowl, mix the dry yeast with a little warm milk and a tablespoon of sugar, letting it rise for 10 minutes.
In another container, combine the eggs with a pinch of salt and sugar. Add the flavors (vanilla, orange, and lemon zest) and mix well.
Add the yogurt and mix until it binds. Start adding the flour, alternating with melted butter and oil. Knead gently until the dough becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. If needed, add a little more flour. Kneading should take no more than 20 minutes.
3. First Rising
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in volume.
4. Preparing the Filling
Meanwhile, prepare the cheese filling. In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the yolks beaten with a little salt, sugar, sour cream, semolina, and flavors (orange zest, vanilla, rum essence). Finally, add the beaten egg whites, gently folding in with a spatula to keep the air in the whites.
5. Shaping and Final Rising
After the dough has risen, break off 4 pieces from it. Shape one piece into a sheet, then from the rest make a "crown" around the edge of the pan. Pour the cheese filling in the center and make a cross with a strip of dough on top.
6. Preparing for the Oven
Let the pasca rise for another 30-40 minutes. Before putting it in the oven, brush the surface with an egg yolk for a beautiful golden color.
7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the pasca for 50 minutes. Check occasionally to adjust the baking time according to your oven. The pasca is ready when it is nicely browned, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cooling and Serving
After baking, let the pasca cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. It is delicious warm, but even after cooling, it retains its flavor and fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pasca is usually served plain but can be accompanied by a fruit sauce or a drizzle of sour cream. It also pairs well with a glass of sweet wine or a fragrant tea.
Nutritional Benefits
Pasca is a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, and contains essential nutrients from ingredients like yogurt and butter. Although it is a sweet dessert, the caloric intake can be controlled by adjusting the amount of sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it important to let the ingredients sit at room temperature?
This helps activate the yeast and ensures a fluffier dough.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, but make sure it has a similar texture and is not too wet.
3. How can I vary the recipe?
You can add raisins, chocolate, or nuts to the cheese filling for a personalized touch.
Tips and Tricks
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- If you want a fluffier pasca, let the dough rise longer.
- Do not open the oven door in the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the temperature from dropping.
In conclusion, pasca with cheese and sour cream is more than just a dessert; it is a part of our tradition, filled with memories and beautiful moments. Try this recipe and enjoy an unforgettable moment with your loved ones! Happy Easter!
Ingredients: 1 kg flour (and a little extra if needed for kneading) 500 g sugar 1 pack of butter 100 g palm oil 400 g yogurt 6 eggs flavors: vanilla, orange zest, lemon zest 2 packets of dry yeast a pinch of salt Cream cheese: 1 kg cottage cheese 500 g sour cream (preferably full-fat) 5 tablespoons semolina 7 eggs 400 g sugar flavors: orange zest, vanilla, a tablespoon of rum essence a pinch of salt
