Cozonac with cheese

Cozonac with cheese – a traditional delight that brings the aroma of holidays into every home! This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an important part of culinary traditions, symbolizing prosperity and family communion. In this detailed guide, I will teach you step by step how to prepare a perfect cozonac with cheese and raisins, ideal for festive meals or a delicious dessert any day.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Number of servings: 2 cozonaci

Ingredients for the dough (for 2 cozonaci):
- 50 g melted and cooled butter
- 300 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 small egg
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- a pinch of salt
- a packet of whipped cream flavored pudding
- 500 g flour
- yeast the size of a larger walnut

Ingredients for the filling:
- 300 g raisins
- 500 g sweet cheese
- 1 egg (1.2 eggs if you prefer a richer filling)
- semolina (if needed)
- lemon zest (for a fresh taste)
- sugar to taste

Ingredients for the glaze:
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- lemon juice (for an extra touch of acidity)

The history of cozonac with cheese is lost in the mists of time, being a recipe that has brought joy to many households, especially during the winter holidays. It is a symbol of tradition, and each family has its own variant, perhaps with a secret ingredient or a unique preparation technique.

Now, let’s get to work!

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, mix the melted and cooled butter with the lukewarm milk. Make sure the milk is not too hot, otherwise it will kill the yeast. Add the egg, sugar, and salt, mixing well until homogeneous.

Step 2: Activating the yeast
Dissolve the yeast in the milk mixture and let it work for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial for obtaining a fluffy and airy dough.

Step 3: Incorporating the flour
Gradually add the flour and the packet of pudding. Mix with a spatula or with your hands until the dough becomes homogeneous. Finally, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands.

Step 4: Rising the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in volume.

Step 5: Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In another bowl, mix the sweet cheese with the egg, lemon zest, and sugar to taste. If the filling is too soft, add a little semolina to give it a firmer consistency. Don’t forget to wash the raisins and let them soak in warm water for 15 minutes to make them juicier.

Step 6: Forming the cozonac
After the dough has risen, divide it into 4 equal pieces. Each piece is rolled out fairly thin, then spread evenly with a quarter of the cheese filling. Sprinkle raisins over the entire surface. Roll each piece tightly, then cut lengthwise halfway, being careful not to separate the two halves. Braid the two parts and place the cozonac in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 7: Rising the cozonac
Let the cozonaci rise for another 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy texture.

Step 8: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the cozonaci for about 40-45 minutes, or until they turn golden and pass the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the middle; if it comes out clean, they are ready).

Step 9: Preparing the glaze
In a small bowl, mix the sugar with the melted butter and lemon juice. When the cozonaci are ready, brush them with this glaze to give them a shiny appearance and a delicious taste.

Step 10: Cooling and serving
Let the cozonaci cool on a rack. This step will help maintain the fluffy texture. Serve the cozonac in slices, plain or alongside a cup of flavored tea or a glass of warm milk. It is delicious and can be enjoyed both at breakfast and as a dessert.

Possible variations:
- Try adding nuts or almonds to the filling for a crunchy texture.
- Experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon or vanilla to the filling.

Nutritional benefits:
Cozonac with cheese is a good source of protein due to the cheese and egg, while the raisins add natural sweetness and antioxidants. Whole flour can be used to increase fiber intake.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use cottage cheese instead of sweet cheese?
Yes, but make sure it is well drained to avoid a too wet filling.
- What can I do if the dough doesn't rise?
Make sure the yeast is fresh and that you have used a warm environment for rising.

This cozonac with cheese is more than just a simple dessert; it is a cooking experience that enriches your soul and brings you closer to loved ones. Prepare it with love and enjoy every slice together with your family!

 Ingredients: Dough: (for 2 sweet breads) 50g melted and cooled butter 300ml warm milk 1 small egg 4 tablespoons of sugar a pinch of salt a sachet of whipped cream flavor pudding 500g flour yeast the size of a larger walnut Filling: 300g raisins 500g sweet cheese 1.2 eggs semolina lemon zest sugar to taste Glaze: 2 tablespoons sugar melted butter lemon juice

 Tags:  easter bread and sweet bread sweet bread cheese raisins christmas sweets christmas recipes easter recipes