Recipe for making cheese doughnuts

Fluffy cheese donuts with blackcurrant jam

Who hasn't heard of cheese donuts? This traditional Romanian dessert is not only delicious but also a journey into fragrant memories, transporting us to joyful moments spent with family and friends. Cheese donuts are a symbol of conviviality, perfect for ending a meal or enjoying with coffee. I invite you to discover my recipe for fluffy cheese donuts, which combines the fine texture of cheese with the sweetness of fruits and creamy sour cream.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g sweet cheese or ricotta (ideally well-drained)
- 2 large eggs
- 100 g sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 200 g flour
- a pinch of salt
- oil for frying
- blackcurrant jam (or another preferred jam)
- sour cream (for serving)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure the cheese is well-drained and free of excess water. This will prevent the donuts from becoming too watery. If using ricotta, it would be ideal to mash it with a fork to achieve a finer texture.

2. Mixing the composition: In a large bowl, add the cheese and mash it well with a fork. Add the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything until you get a homogeneous composition, the consistency of a dough.

3. Combining the dry ingredients: In another container, sift the flour together with the baking soda. This will help achieve a fluffy texture. Gradually add the flour to the cheese mixture, stirring continuously. You will obtain a soft dough that holds well.

4. Shaping the donuts: From the obtained dough, form a larger ball, making sure it is not too dense. Then, with your thumb, make a hole in the middle of the ball to give it its characteristic shape. From the remaining dough, form a smaller ball that will serve as a cap.

5. Frying: In a large pan, heat the oil over low heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough but not at too high a temperature to avoid burning the donuts. Carefully place the donuts in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry each side until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

6. Serving: Place the donuts on a platter and serve them warm, with a generous layer of sour cream and blackcurrant jam on top. This adds a note of acidity that perfectly balances the sweet taste of the donuts.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of jam depending on your preferences. Cherry or strawberry jam are also excellent!
- If you want to add an extra flavor, you can incorporate vanilla essence or lemon zest into the dough.
- The donuts can also be baked for a healthier option. You can place them in a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes at 180°C.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta? Yes, but make sure it is well-drained.
2. How can I store the donuts? They can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days, but it is best to consume them fresh.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Each serving of donuts has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream and jam used. The cheese provides a source of protein, while the fruit jam offers essential vitamins and minerals. It is a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Cheese donuts are a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia and joy in every bite. I challenge you to try them and share this special moment with your loved ones! Perhaps, like me, you will discover that each donut has a story to tell.