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Papanași Recipe – European Special

Papanași are traditional Romanian fried doughnuts known for their soft texture and rich cheesy flavor. This classic recipe features dough made with fresh cheese, flour, eggs, and sugar, shaped into round doughnuts and fried until golden brown. They are traditionally topped with sour cream and fruit jam, creating a delicious balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors.
A beloved dessert in Romania cuisine, Papanași are often served warm as a comforting treat during family meals and special occasions. Their fluffy interior and crispy exterior make them a favorite among dessert lovers. This authentic Papanași recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a classic Eastern European dessert with rich homemade flavor.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time15 min
- Total Time35 min
- Course
- CUISINE
- Europe
Papanași Ingredients:
- 200g cottage cheese or ricotta
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Oil for frying
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fruit jam
- Powdered sugar for garnish
Papanași Instructions:
Place cottage cheese in a mixing bowl.
Add egg, sugar, and vanilla extract and mix well.
Add flour and baking powder gradually.
Mix until a soft dough forms.
Divide the dough into equal portions.
Shape each portion into round doughnuts with small balls on top.
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
Fry the doughnuts until golden brown on all sides.
Remove and drain excess oil.
Place the fried papanași on serving plates.
Top with sour cream generously.
Add fruit jam over the top.
Garnish with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Recipe Notes :
Use fresh soft cheese for authentic texture and taste.
Do not overmix the dough to keep it light and soft.
Fry on medium heat for even cooking.
Top generously with sour cream and fruit jam.
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
