Nut dough Easter bread

Nut Dough Pastry - A Holiday Delight

Nut dough pastry is more than just a simple dessert; it is a tradition passed down through generations, a recipe filled with memories and emotions. Each bite of this pastry speaks of holidays, family reunions, and special moments spent together. I dedicate this recipe to my mother, who year after year brings this delicacy to the Easter table, and now, with joy, I have begun to continue this beautiful tradition.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the base:
- 125 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 100 g sugar
- 200 g flour
- 3 eggs (separated into whites and yolks)
- 1 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 100 g ground walnuts

For the cheese cream:
- 750 g sweet cottage cheese (make sure it is well drained)
- A pinch of salt
- 6 eggs (beaten)
- 150 g raisins (soaked in warm water or rum for extra flavor)
- Vanilla and rum essence (to taste)
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 3 tablespoons of semolina

Preparation:

1. Preparing the base:
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is essential, as a well-heated oven will ensure even baking. In a large bowl, add the margarine (or butter) and sugar. Use a mixer to beat them together until you obtain a creamy and frothy mixture. This is when the sweet and rich aroma of the base develops.

2. Adding the yolks:
Add the yolks one by one, mixing well after each addition. This will help incorporate air into the mixture, giving the base a fluffy texture.

3. Incorporating dry ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, ground walnuts, and a pinch of salt. Sift the dry ingredients to avoid clumps. Add the dry ingredient mixture to the margarine and egg mixture, mixing gently until homogeneous. Finally, beat the egg whites until frothy and gently fold them into the base mixture. This will add volume and make the pastry fluffier.

4. Preparing the cheese cream:
In a large bowl, mix the sweet cottage cheese with a pinch of salt. Add the beaten eggs and sugar, mixing well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. Here, you can add the vanilla and rum essences, which will provide an irresistible fragrance. Add the raisins and semolina, mixing gently. The semolina will help absorb excess moisture, providing a pleasant texture.

5. Assembling the pastry:
Prepare a tray (preferably 25x35 cm) and line it with baking paper. Pour the base mixture into the tray, leveling it evenly. Then, add the cheese cream on top and smooth it out with a spatula, being careful not to mix the compositions.

6. Baking:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the base is golden and the cheese cream is well set. Check it in the last 10 minutes of baking; if you notice it browning too quickly, cover it lightly with aluminum foil.

7. Cooling and serving:
Once the pastry is baked, let it cool in the tray for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. This will allow the steam to escape, keeping the pastry fluffy.

Helpful tips:

- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add lemon or orange zest to the cheese cream.
- Raisins can be replaced with other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, to offer a different taste.
- Nut dough pastry pairs perfectly with warm chocolate sauce or a drizzle of sour cream.

Nutritional benefits:
This dessert is not only delicious but also relatively nutritious. Nuts add healthy fatty acids, and sweet cottage cheese is a good source of protein. Raisins provide fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use goat cheese or ricotta, but make sure they are well drained.

2. How can I keep the pastry fresh?
Store the pastry in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness for up to a week.

3. Is it possible to freeze the pastry?
Yes, the pastry can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled and well wrapped before placing it in the freezer.

This nut dough pastry is not just a dessert but a story, a connection to tradition and loved ones. Each slice is filled with memories and emotions, so do not hesitate to share this delicacy with those you love. Enjoy it with a warm tea or a glass of sweet wine, and let yourself be carried away by the flavors of the holidays!