Soft, golden, and rich with cheese — these traditional Romanian treats are perfect served warm with cream and jam.
Fluffy Romanian Papanasi (Papanși Pufoși Tradiționali)
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare the base
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In a large bowl, add drained sweet cheese and sugar.
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Mix baking soda with vinegar and pour over the cheese mixture.
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Add flavor & eggs
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Grate the lemon zest and add to the mixture.
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Add eggs and semolina.
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Mix gently to keep the cheese texture intact.
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Incorporate dry ingredients
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In a separate bowl, mix flour with baking powder.
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Gradually add to the cheese mixture, stirring gently.
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Add vanilla (or rum) essence.
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Rest the dough
Refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes.
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Shape & fry
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Flour your work surface generously.
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Shape the dough into small rounds (traditional shape: doughnut-like base + small ball for topping).
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Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the papanasi on medium heat until golden brown on both sides.
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