Branzoici

Delicious Branzoici - A Traditional Cheese Pastry Recipe

Our culinary journey today takes us to a beloved dessert, full of flavor and history: branzoici. These fluffy delights, filled with sweet cheese, are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive meal, a gathering with friends, or simply a sweet snack accompanied by aromatic coffee. So, let’s get to work!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 50-60 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 branzoici

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 ml lukewarm milk
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup sunflower oil or olive oil
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 pack fresh yeast (about 25 g)
- A pinch of salt
- Grated zest of one lemon (for extra flavor)
- Flour as needed (about 800 g)

For the filling:
- 500 g sweet cottage cheese (use fresh cheese for better taste)
- 6 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons semolina (to bind the filling)
- 2 packets vanilla sugar (or one teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- A handful of raisins (optional, but recommended for an interesting texture)

For the glaze:
- 100 ml water
- 50 g sugar
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough
1. Start by gently warming the milk. It should be lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast. If it’s too hot, it will kill it.
2. In a large bowl, add the lukewarm milk, sugar, a pinch of salt, and the yeast. Stir gently until the yeast is completely dissolved.
3. Beat the eggs and add them to the milk mixture. Mix well.
4. Start adding the flour gradually, mixing continuously. It’s important not to add all the flour at once to control the dough's consistency.
5. As you mix, add the oil and lemon zest. Continue kneading the dough for about 30 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.

Step 2: First rising
1. After kneading, cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 25-30 minutes until it doubles in size. This is a crucial step, as good rising will make the branzoici fluffy and airy.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
1. In a separate bowl, mix the sweet cottage cheese with sugar, semolina, vanilla sugar, and raisins. The mixture should be homogeneous and easy to spread.

Step 4: Shaping the branzoici
1. Once the dough has risen, place it on a floured work surface. Roll out a medium-thick sheet of dough.
2. Cut the dough into squares of about 10x10 cm.
3. On each square, place a tablespoon of cheese filling and carefully bring the four corners together to form a pouch.
4. Place the branzoici on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them to allow for rising.

Step 5: Second rising
1. Cover the branzoici with a towel and let them rise for another 15 minutes. This step will help achieve a slightly fluffy texture.

Step 6: Baking
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Beat an egg and brush each branzoic with it for a golden and appealing crust.
3. Bake the branzoici for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden and browned. It’s important not to open the oven door in the first 15 minutes to allow the dough to rise evenly.

Step 7: Glazing and serving
1. While the branzoici are baking, prepare a simple syrup from water and sugar. Boil the two ingredients in a small pot until the sugar completely dissolves.
2. Once the branzoici are ready, take them out of the oven and immediately brush them with the warm syrup. This step will add a sweet touch and keep them moist.
3. Cover the branzoici with a towel for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Finally, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Chef's tip
For an extra flavor boost, you can add a few drops of almond or orange essence to the fillings. Also, if you want a healthier version, you can use low-fat cottage cheese and replace the sugar with a natural sweetener.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor.

2. How can I keep the branzoici fresh?
You can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a week.

3. Can I freeze the branzoici?
Yes, it’s a good idea to freeze them. Place them in an airtight container, and when you want to consume them, let them thaw at room temperature.

Delicious combinations
Branzoici are delicious alongside a cup of hot tea or aromatic coffee. For a hearty breakfast, you can serve them with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits.

Conclusion
Branzoici are a perfect choice for those who love fluffy and flavorful desserts. Whether you make them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe is simple and accessible. Not only will you create a delicious dessert, but you will also bring a touch of joy to the lives of your loved ones. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s make the best branzoici together!