Pască – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Romania Servings: Serves 8
Romania Servings: Serves 8Pască is a traditional Romanian sweet bread, often prepared during Easter as a symbol of renewal and celebration. This delectable bread combines the rich textures of a soft, brioche-like dough with a creamy, sweet cheese filling, creating a heavenly dessert. It is deeply rooted in Romanian culture, where it is considered a staple at festive gatherings, representing abundance and spiritual richness.
Ingredients
- all-purpose flour – 4 cups / 480 g
- granulated sugar – 1 cup / 200 g
- active dry yeast – 2 1/4 tsp / 7 g
- milk – 1 cup / 240 ml
- unsalted butter – 1/2 cup / 115 g
- eggs – 3 large
- vanilla extract – 1 tsp
- salt – 1/2 tsp
- ricotta cheese – 1 1/2 cups / 375 g
- ricotta cheese – 1 1/2 cups / 375 g
- powdered sugar – 1/2 cup / 60 g
- lemon zest – 1 tbsp
- raisins – 1/2 cup / 75 g
Instructions
- In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) and add the yeast with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
- Add the yeast mixture, beaten eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- For the filling, mix ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and raisins in a bowl.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a round shape and transfer it into a greased, round baking dish.
- Spoon the cheese mixture on top, leaving a border of dough around the edge to fold up.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Allow the Pască to cool slightly before serving.
Substitutions
- ricotta cheese -> cottage cheese or cream cheese
- raisins -> dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Incorporate a light brush of apricot glaze on top for added shine and sweetness.
- Use a hint of cinnamon in the dough for a subtle spice note.
- Soak the raisins in rum for additional complexity in flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
