Recipe for preparing cheese doughnuts

Cottage cheese papanasi – a sweet delight that combines tradition with authentic flavor! This classic recipe will bring a smile to your face and fill your home with wonderful aromas. Preparing papanasi is a joyful experience, perfect for spending time with loved ones. Let's discover together how to make them!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

- 400 g cottage cheese
- 500 g white flour
- 250 g sugar
- 3 eggs
- Zest and juice of one lemon
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons jam (preferably sour cherry or cherry)
- 200 g sour cream
- Rum essence (optional but recommended)

A Bit of History

Papanasi are a traditional dessert with roots in folk cuisine, having various versions that differ from one region to another. They are often associated with festive moments, being prepared for special events and family gatherings. Using simple yet delicious ingredients, cottage cheese papanasi have become a symbol of hospitality and culinary joy.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by placing the cottage cheese in a large bowl. Make sure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture. If you prefer a finer texture, you can use a fork or a mixer to mash it.

2. Mixing the composition: Add the 3 eggs, 250 g sugar, lemon zest, and juice over the cottage cheese. Mix all the ingredients well until you obtain a smooth paste.

3. Incorporating the flour: Gradually add the white flour, mixing continuously. You will notice that the dough becomes denser. It should be soft but not sticky. If necessary, adjust the amount of flour.

4. Shaping the papanasi: Wet your hands to prevent the dough from sticking. Take a portion of the dough and form round dumplings with a dent in the middle (almost like a doughnut). From the remaining dough, form small balls that will be placed on top of the papanasi.

5. Frying: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Check if the oil is hot enough with a simple test: throw a crumb of dough – if it floats to the surface, it's ready! Fry the papanasi, 2-3 at a time, until golden on both sides. Make sure to turn them carefully.

6. Assembling: After frying, remove the papanasi onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Place them on a platter and fill the dent of each papanas with jam. Then, place a ball of dough on top.

7. Decorating: In a separate bowl, whip the sour cream with powdered sugar and rum essence until fluffy. Add a generous layer of whipped cream on top of the papanasi for an attractive look and a special aroma.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the cheese: Use fresh, well-drained cottage cheese for the best papanasi. You can even use cottage cheese with a higher fat content for a creamier texture.
- Fried alternative: If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the papanasi in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 20-25 minutes.
- Serving: Papanasi can be served warm or at room temperature. They are delicious alongside a scoop of ice cream or a cup of aromatic coffee.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

One papanas has approximately 250 calories, but this number can vary depending on the preparation method and ingredients used. Papanasi are a source of protein due to the cottage cheese, while lemon adds a boost of vitamin C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with ricotta or goat cheese, but make sure the texture remains similar.

How can I store papanasi?
Papanasi can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best to consume them fresh.

What can I serve with papanasi?
They pair wonderfully with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or vanilla ice cream.

Delicious Variants

- Chocolate papanasi: Add cocoa to the dough for a decadent version.
- Fruit papanasi: Incorporate pieces of fresh fruit, such as blueberries or raspberries, into the dough for an explosion of flavors.

Cottage cheese papanasi are a perfect choice for any occasion and an excellent way to bring joy to your tables. Whether you make them for a family gathering or just to treat yourself, they are sure to be a hit! Enjoy!