Moldovan cheese pastries

Moldovan Branzoaice - A Sweet Indulgence from Childhood

When it comes to traditional recipes, Moldovan branzoaice are a culinary treasure that reminds us of the moments spent with loved ones. These delicious treats, filled with sweet cheese and flavored with raisins, are perfect for enjoying at breakfast, as a snack, or even as dessert. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step, providing not only the necessary ingredients but also essential tips to achieve the fluffiest branzoaice.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 15 branzoaice

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 600 g of flour
- 2 eggs
- 25 g of fresh yeast
- 200 ml of warm milk
- 150 g of sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 30 ml of oil

For the filling:
- 500 g of cottage cheese
- 100 g of sugar
- 100 g of raisins (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- 2 eggs
- Flavors of your choice (vanilla, rum, or even lemon zest)
- A pinch of salt

The history of branzoaice

Branzoaice are a symbol of hospitality and culinary tradition, prepared by generations in rural families. They are often associated with festive moments but can also be made on ordinary days to delight the whole family. The aroma of sweet cheese combined with subtle notes of vanilla or rum makes every bite a true pleasure.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the starter: Start by making the starter. In a small bowl, mix 25 g of fresh yeast with a teaspoon of sugar, then add 50 ml of warm milk. Mix well and gradually add 100 g of flour. Let it rise for 15 minutes in a warm place, covered with a towel.

2. Preparing the egg mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the 2 eggs with 150 g of sugar, the vanilla sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add 200 ml of warm milk and mix well.

3. Forming the dough: Once the starter has risen nicely, add it to the egg mixture. Mix well, then start incorporating the flour gradually, alternating with the oil, until you obtain a smooth and elastic dough. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour until it doubles in volume.

4. Preparing the filling: In the meantime, we can prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix 500 g of cottage cheese with 100 g of sugar, 100 g of raisins, 2 eggs, flavors of your choice, and a pinch of salt. Make sure the filling is well combined for a creamy and delicious texture.

5. Shaping the branzoaice: After the dough has risen, divide it into about 15 equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll each piece of dough into circles. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle and carefully close the dough, forming small pouches.

6. Arranging on the tray: Place the branzoaice on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave space between them as they will rise further. Let them rise for 30 minutes.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the branzoaice for about 30 minutes or until golden and fluffy.

8. Serving: Serve warm, alongside buttermilk, yogurt, or a cup of fragrant tea. They are also perfect to share with friends at a gathering.

Tips and variations

- If you want an extra flavor, you can add some ground nuts to the filling or even a bit of chocolate.
- Branzoaice can be frozen. After baking, let them cool completely, then you can store them in freezer bags. When you want to consume them, take them out of the freezer and warm them in the oven to restore their fluffy texture.

Nutritional information

One serving (1 branzoaică) contains approximately:
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g

Branzoaice are a good source of carbohydrates due to the flour and sugar, while cottage cheese provides a healthy portion of protein. Additionally, the addition of raisins brings fiber and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to respect the proportions. Usually, 10 g of dry yeast is equivalent to 25 g of fresh yeast.

2. How can I tell if the dough has risen enough?
A well-risen dough doubles in volume. Also, if you gently press it with your finger, it should spring back quickly to its original shape.

3. Can I replace cottage cheese?
Of course! You can use ricotta or goat cheese for a different taste.

Moldovan branzoaice are more than just a culinary dish; they are a memory of beautiful times, a symbol of love and family warmth. So let’s prepare them together and enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!