There’s something undeniably charming about the sound of dough frying and the sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen, transporting me straight to a cozy Romanian café. This recipe for authentic Romanian papanasi is a delightful twist on your usual dessert routine—think fluffy, cheese-filled doughnuts waiting to be adorned with rich sour cream and luscious berry jam. Each bite is a harmonious blend of crispy exteriors and soft, creamy interiors, making it a dish that promises to enchant anyone lucky enough to indulge in it. Perfect for both family gatherings and quiet evenings at home, these papanasi are more than just a treat; they bring warmth and comfort reminiscent of Eastern European hospitality. So, if you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s both easy and impressive, grab your ingredients, and let’s make this traditional dessert together!
Why are Papanasi a must-try dessert?
Delightful Crunch: The crispy outer layer gives way to a soft, creamy interior, ensuring each bite is a delicious experience.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress their family and friends.
Versatile Toppings: From rich sour cream to vibrant berry jams, you can customize these doughnuts to suit your mood.
Cultural Charm: Bringing a taste of Romania to your table, these papanasi are perfect for gatherings, offering warmth and hospitality.
Rich Flavor: The combination of cottage cheese, lemon zest, and vanilla creates a unique and indulgent treat that you won’t forget.
Dive into this satisfying recipe and consider pairing it with a nice cup of coffee for the ultimate cozy experience.
Papanasi Ingredients
For the Doughnuts
- Cottage Cheese (or Ricotta) – Provides structure and creaminess; opt for firm, low-moisture varieties for best results.
- Eggs – Act as a binding agent; medium-sized eggs work perfectly for the rich texture.
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential for dough structure; adjust the quantity if the dough becomes sticky.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough; customize the amount based on your taste preferences.
- Baking Soda – Helps the doughnuts rise when frying, creating a delightful texture.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dough.
- Lemon Zest – A bright, aromatic addition that beautifully complements the cheese flavors.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses a sweet, warm aroma into the doughnuts.
For Frying
- Sunflower Oil – Ideal for frying, it creates a crispy crust; maintain oil temperature between 170–180°C for best results.
For Serving
- Sour Cream – Adds rich creaminess on top; can be easily substituted with Greek yogurt if desired.
- Berry Jam (Blueberry or Raspberry) – Offers a lovely sweet topping; feel free to experiment with strawberry or sour cherry jams as well.
Embrace the joy of making papanasi at home, a delightful treat that will surely impress your loved ones!
How to Make Papanasi
-
Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy, giving you a great base for your doughnuts.
-
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and baking soda into the mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms; if the dough sticks to your hands, add a bit more flour.
-
Shape the Papanasi: Divide the dough into six equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball, then create a hole in the center, resembling a doughnut. For added flair, shape small balls from leftover dough to rest atop each doughnut.
-
Fry Until Golden: Heat sunflower oil in a deep pan to 170–180°C. Carefully place the doughnuts in the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
-
Serve with Toppings: Once heated through, arrange the warm papanasi on a platter. Top each with a generous scoop of sour cream and a dollop of berry jam. For a fun presentation, place the smaller ball on top of each doughnut and drizzle with more jam if desired.
Optional: Garnish with fresh berries for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Papanasi?
Elevate your meal experience by pairing these delightful doughnuts with complementary sides and beverages that enhance their rich flavors.
- Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of freshness and natural sweetness, balancing the creamy topping.
- Coffee: A steaming cup of robust coffee or espresso brings out the dessert’s flavors and creates a cozy café vibe at home.
- Citrus Salad: A bright salad with orange and grapefruit segments adds a zesty freshness that contrasts deliciously with the sweetness of the papanasi.
- Whipped Cream: Soft, lightly sweetened whipped cream provides extra creaminess and a delightful cloud-like texture to enhance the indulgent experience.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich, warm chocolate over the doughnuts adds a decadent twist that chocolate lovers won’t resist. It creates a more luxurious dessert experience.
- Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea is a refreshing palate cleanser between bites, reinvigorating your senses with each sip.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve them warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful melt-in-your-mouth combination that’s pure comfort.
- Nuts: Crushed walnuts or hazelnuts sprinkled on top introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, making every bite more exciting.
- Syrup: A warm maple syrup drizzle brings a delightful sweetness that complements the tangy cheese flavor beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Papanasi
Fridge: Keep your papanasi in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If reheating, warm them briefly in the oven or microwave to restore softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked papanasi in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Bake frozen papanasi at 175°C (350°F) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. They will be just as delicious when served with sour cream and berry jam!
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat them within the day, store them at room temperature, covered, to maintain their delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful papanasi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla, lemon zest, and salt. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent browning. For best results, shape the doughnuts right before frying—about 30 minutes before serving ensures they remain fluffy and light. Fry them until golden brown, then serve warm with sour cream and berry jam for that irresistible comfort dessert. With these tips, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade treat with minimal effort, making your busy life a bit sweeter!
Papanasi Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and give these delightful doughnuts a personal touch that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds!
-
Ricotta Swap: Use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese for a creamier texture and a subtly different flavor.
-
Honey Sweetener: Sweeten the dough with honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a touch of natural sweetness.
-
Fruit Jam Twist: Experiment with various fruit jams like apricot, fig, or even a spiced apple compote for unique flavor profiles.
-
Extra Spice: Add ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, aromatic twist that enhances the overall flavor.
-
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these delicious doughnuts suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
-
Baked Option: For a lighter version, try baking the shaped doughnuts at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes instead of frying.
-
Citrus Blast: Introduce orange zest along with or in place of lemon zest for an invigorating citrus flavor that brightens up the doughnuts.
-
Nut Topping: Top with crushed nuts, such as pistachios or walnuts, for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the sour cream.
Let these variations inspire you to craft your own perfect version of papanasi!
Expert Tips for Papanasi
-
Choose Your Cheese: Use low-moisture cottage cheese or ricotta for the best texture. This prevents overly wet dough which can lead to soggy results.
-
Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep frying oil between 170–180°C to avoid burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. A thermometer is helpful here!
-
Don’t Skip the Zest: Lemon zest is key for balancing flavors, so don’t leave it out! It adds a refreshing note that elevates the entire dish.
-
Perfecting the Shape: Form doughnuts with a thick enough center and a well-defined hole to ensure even cooking. The small balls placed on top add charm and texture.
-
Serving Warm: Enjoy papanasi warm for the best experience. They’re light and fluffy straight from the fryer, perfectly pairing with chilled sour cream and jam.
Papanasi Recipe FAQs
What type of cottage cheese should I use for Papanasi?
Absolutely! For the best results, use low-moisture, firm cottage cheese or ricotta. This ensures a well-structured dough that doesn’t turn soggy. If you see dark spots on the cheese, it’s best to avoid using that.
How should I store leftover Papanasi?
Very good question! You can keep your papanasi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat briefly in the oven or microwave to restore their warmth and softness.
Can I freeze Papanasi?
Yes! To freeze, lay the cooked papanasi in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterwards, transfer them to a zip-top bag and they’ll be good for up to 2 months. When it’s time to enjoy them again, bake frozen papanasi at 175°C (350°F) for about 10-12 minutes, and they will be just as delicious!
What if my dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough turns out sticky, gradually add more flour until it reaches a manageable consistency. Also, ensure that you’re mixing enough during the initial steps to create the perfect balance for your doughnuts.
Can Papanasi be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can experiment with gluten-free flour alternatives. Just remember, you may need to adjust the amount depending on the brand, as they can vary in absorbency.
Are Papanasi safe for pets to eat?
It’s best to avoid giving Papanasi to pets. The sugar and dairy content may not agree with them, and they could lead to digestive issues. Stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends!
These FAQs will help you navigate your Papanasi-making journey with ease and confidence—it’s all about making your experience delightful!
Irresistible Papanasi: Crispy Romanian Cheese Doughnuts Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and baking soda into the mixture until a soft dough forms; add more flour if sticky.
- Divide the dough into six equal portions, shape each into a ball, and create a hole in the center to resemble a doughnut.
- Heat sunflower oil in a deep pan to 170–180°C. Fry the doughnuts until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side, then drain on paper towels.
- Arrange the warm papanasi on a platter and top each with sour cream and berry jam, adding small balls of dough if desired.