Moldovan cheese pies
Cheese Branzoaice: A Recipe with a Taste of Childhood
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 branzoaice
Branzoaice are a delicacy that brings sweet memories from childhood, a symbol of kindness and warmth from the family home. These small pastries are filled with sweet cheese and have a fluffy and soft texture, perfect for enjoying at breakfast or as a snack between meals. Let's see together how we can recreate this delicious recipe, step by step.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 500 g flour (preferably type 550, for better texture)
- 240 ml warm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast)
- 25 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- 2 eggs (medium size)
- 60 g butter (melted but not hot)
- 90 g sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla essence or lemon zest to taste
For the filling:
- 350 g cottage cheese (well-drained and soft)
- 150 g sugar (can be adjusted to taste)
- 1 egg
- Zest of one lemon
- 1 egg yolk + 2 tablespoons of milk (for brushing)
Step by step
Step 1: Preparing the yeast
In a deep bowl, sift the 500 g of flour to remove any lumps. In another container, mix the yeast with 2 tablespoons of warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on top - this is a sign that the yeast is active.
Step 2: Rising the dough
Pour the yeast mixture over the flour. Gently mix, then cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial to allow the yeast to activate and help the dough rise.
Step 3: Forming the dough
After the yeast has risen, add the remaining milk, eggs, sugar, salt, and essence. Use a spoon to mix the composition well. Then, add the melted butter and continue mixing. If you feel the dough is getting too sticky, don't hesitate to add a little more flour.
Step 4: Kneading the dough
Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes soft, elastic, and no longer sticks to your hands. Cover it again with a towel and let it rise for an hour in a warm place until it doubles in volume.
Step 5: Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, prepare the cheese filling. In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese with 150 g of sugar, 1 egg, and lemon zest. Make sure the cheese is well-drained; otherwise, the filling may be too wet.
Step 6: Forming the branzoaice
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a square sheet. Cut it into squares of about 10 cm. On each square, place a teaspoon of the cheese filling. Then, fold the opposite corners of the square to form a small pouch.
Step 7: Baking
Place the branzoaice on a greased baking tray, ensuring enough space between them to expand. Using a brush, glaze each branzoaică with the egg yolk mixed with the 2 tablespoons of milk for a golden and shiny crust.
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the branzoaice for 35-40 minutes or until they turn beautifully golden brown.
Serving and variations
These delicious branzoaice can be enjoyed warm, alongside creamy yogurt or with a cup of warm milk. If you want to give them an even special touch, try dusting them with powdered sugar after baking or serving them with a vanilla sauce.
You can experiment with various fillings: feta cheese with dill, chocolate, or berry jams. Each variation offers a unique culinary experience that can evoke different memories.
Nutritional benefits
These branzoaice are a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese, and the eggs contribute to the intake of vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the butter adds a rich flavor, but don’t overdo the portions, as each branzoaică has about 180 calories, depending on the chosen filling.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but adjust the amount to 7 g. Mix it directly with the flour.
2. How can I store the branzoaice?
Keep the branzoaice in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can freeze them for later consumption - make sure they are completely cooled before freezing.
3. What drinks pair well with branzoaice?
They pair excellently with fruit tea or creamy cappuccino, but also with a sweet white wine if you want to serve them on a special occasion.
Personal note
This branzoaice recipe evokes memories from my childhood when my mother would prepare these delights for us on weekends. Each bite brings not only a delicious taste but also a touch of nostalgia. I encourage you to bring a little of your heart into every branzoaică you prepare. Cooking is an art that connects us with our loved ones, so enjoy every moment!
I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!
Ingredients: Dough ingredients: 500 g flour, 240 ml milk, a cube of fresh yeast, 2 eggs, 60 g butter, 90 g sugar, a pinch of salt, essence to taste. Filling: 350 g well-drained cottage cheese, 150 g sugar, 1 egg, lemon zest, 1 egg yolk + 2 tablespoons of milk (for brushing).
