Branzoici

Delicious Branzoici

Who doesn't love to savor a dessert that combines tradition with exquisite taste? Branzoici are a perfect example of this amalgam, bringing a flavor of comfort and nostalgia to our table. This recipe is easy to follow, and the final result is sure to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, branzoici are delightful both warm and cold.

Preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 1 kg flour
- 50 g fresh yeast
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Grated zest of one lemon
- Juice from half a lemon
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 250 ml lukewarm milk
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 750 g sweet cottage cheese
- 3 eggs
- 200 g powdered sugar (or more, to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons semolina
- Raisins (optional, 50 g, soaked in rum essence)
- Lemon zest
- Rum essence

Extra:
- 1 egg (for brushing)

Preparation

1. Prepare the dough:
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is essential to aerate the flour and achieve a fluffy dough. Meanwhile, warm the milk slightly and add a pinch of salt, sugar, yeast, and a tablespoon of flour. Mix well and let the mixture sit covered with a towel for about 10 minutes, until the yeast becomes frothy.

2. Form the dough:
In the sifted flour, make a well in the center. Add the grated lemon zest, lemon juice, egg yolks, and oil. Incorporate a little of the flour, then pour in the milk mixture. Knead by hand or use a food processor until you get a smooth, non-sticky, and fluffy dough. You may need to add a little water, depending on the type of flour used. Knead for about 15 minutes.

3. Let the dough rise:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rest and rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes. During this time, the aroma of yeast will fill the house, anticipating the delights to come.

4. Prepare the filling:
In another bowl, mash the cottage cheese with a fork or mixer. Add the eggs, sugar, lemon zest, and rum essence, mixing well. Taste the filling and adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If the cheese is too soft, add 1-2 tablespoons of semolina. If desired, fold in the raisins soaked in rum essence for added flavor.

5. Form the branzoici:
Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and remove the dough. Roll it out to about 0.5 cm thick. Cut into 10x10 cm squares. On each square, place a tablespoon of the cheese filling. Fold the corners of the square, pinching them to seal the filling, then twist gently to ensure a good seal. Place each branzoic in the prepared baking tray, with the corners facing down.

6. Bake the branzoici:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Beat an egg and brush each branzoic with it to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the branzoici are golden and fragrant.

Serving and suggestions

Branzoici are delicious both warm and cold. Serve them alongside a fragrant tea or freshly brewed coffee for a moment of indulgence. You can experiment by adding spices like cinnamon to the filling or even a bit of cocoa to the dough for a chocolaty version.

Possible variations

To add a touch of originality, you can try replacing the cottage cheese with ricotta or using a mix of cheeses. Additionally, adding dried fruits or nuts to the filling can provide an interesting texture and a more complex flavor.

Nutritional benefits

Branzoici contain protein from cheese and eggs, making them a good source of essential nutrients. Whole wheat flour can be used to increase fiber content, improving digestion. However, it is advisable to consume these delights in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions

What is the secret to a fluffy dough?
Kneading well and allowing the dough to rise properly are essential. Make sure to use fresh yeast and let the dough sit in a warm place.

Can I use soy cheese or vegan alternatives?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using soy cheese or other vegan alternatives, adjusting the amount of sugar according to the sweetness of the ingredients used.

What drinks pair best with branzoici?
Branzoici pair wonderfully with herbal tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk.

Try this branzoici recipe and enjoy a delight that will please everyone's taste buds! Always seek to add a touch of creativity and personality to your recipes, and cooking will become a true pleasure.