Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts Recipe (Papanasi)

Delicious Romanian Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts (Papanasi) On a White Plate

Video Recipe

Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts, often referred to as “Papanasi” in their native Romania, are a delightful fusion of tradition and taste. These doughnuts have their roots deeply embedded in Romanian culinary history, tracing back to times when desserts were a luxury and each ingredient was chosen with care and love.

The name “Ricotta” originates from the Italian word “ri-cotta,” meaning “re-cooked.” This cheese is traditionally made from the leftover whey from other cheese productions. When combined with the basic ingredients of a doughnut, ricotta adds a dimension of creaminess that is unparalleled.

The history of Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts is as rich as its flavor. Romania, with its diverse culture influenced by various neighboring countries, has always been a melting pot of unique culinary delights. Papanasi stands out not just for its taste but also for the stories it carries from the past. It’s believed that these doughnuts were often served during festivities and were considered a symbol of prosperity.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts Papanasi Ingredients.
  • Ricotta โ€“ 500 grams or 17.5 ounces
  • Flour โ€“ 320 grams or 11 ounces
  • Eggs โ€“ 3
  • Baking Powder โ€“ 10 grams or a little over 2 tsp
  • Salt โ€“ a pinch
  • Vanilla Extract โ€“ 1 teaspoon or 1 vanilla pod
  • Lemon Zest โ€“ from 1 lemon

Serving Ingredients

Traditional Cheese Doughnuts Ingredients.
  • Sour Cream โ€“ 500 grams or 2 cups
  • Fruit Jelly โ€“ 250 grams or 1 cup

How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts

1. Prepare the Wet Ingredients

Process Shots Showing How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts.

In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.

2. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Process Shots Showing How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts.

Slowly add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the ricotta mixture. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.

3. Shape the Doughnuts

Process Shots Showing How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts.

Form the dough into doughnut shapes.

4. Frying Process

Process Shots Showing How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts.

Heat sunflower oil in a deep frying pan. Fry the doughnuts until they turn golden brown on both sides.

5. Serving

Process Shots Showing How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts.

Serve the ricotta papanasi with sour cream and your choice of fruit jelly.

If You Canโ€™t Find Ricotta Cheese, You Have 2 Alternatives:

  1. Traditional Cheese Doughnuts Recipe.
  2. Cream Cheese Doughnuts Recipe.

FAQ

1. What are Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts?

Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts, also known as Papanasi, are a traditional Romanian dessert made with ricotta cheese, flavored with vanilla and lemon zest, and served with sour cream and fruit jelly.

2. Can I store the leftover doughnuts for later?

es, you can store the leftover doughnuts in an airtight container. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to consume them fresh.

Delicious Romanian Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts (Papanasi) On a White Plate

Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts Recipe

Yield: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Redefine your doughnut experience with the addition of creamy ricotta cheese. These doughnuts blend the airy lightness of classic doughnuts with the distinct richness of ricotta, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. A delightful twist on a timeless favorite.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta โ€“ 500 grams or 17.5 ounces
  • Flour โ€“ 320 grams or 11 ounces
  • Eggs โ€“ 3
  • Baking Powder โ€“ 10 grams or a little over 2 tsp
  • Salt โ€“ a pinch
  • Vanilla Extract โ€“ 1 teaspoon or 1 vanilla pod
  • Lemon Zest โ€“ from 1 lemon

Serving Ingredients

  • Sour cream โ€“ 500 grams or 2 cups
  • Fruit jelly โ€“ 250 grams or 1 cup

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.Process Shots Showing How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts.
  2. Slowly add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the ricotta mixture. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.Process Shots Showing How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts.
  3. Form the dough into doughnut shapes.Process Shots Showing How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts.
  4. Heat sunflower oil in a deep frying pan. Fry the doughnuts until they turn golden brown on both sides.Process Shots Showing How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts.
  5. Serve the ricotta papanasi with sour cream and your choice of fruit jelly.Process Shots Showing How to Make Ricotta Cheese Doughnuts.

Notes

Flavoring: Lemon zest enhances the flavor.

Frying: Use medium heat to ensure the doughnuts cook evenly without burning.

Serving: Papanasi is traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream and plenty of fruit jelly. The choice of fruit jelly is flexible, with sour cherry or apricot jelly being a popular choice.

Texture: The key to a successful papanasi is the texture of the dough. Aim for a soft dough to ensure fluffy doughnuts.

Papanasi with Ricotta Cheese: The ricotta version of papanasi will have a slightly different taste from the traditional version but should be close in both taste and texture.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 397.5g
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 629Total Fat: 21.3gSaturated Fat: 19gUnsaturated Fat: 8.5gCholesterol: 135mgCarbohydrates: 77.5gSugar: 11gProtein: 29.8g

The nutritional information provided is approximate and for reference purposes only. Actual values may vary due to factors such as product brands, preparation methods, and ingredient substitutions. The provided values may not include all nutrients and should not be relied upon as the sole source of nutritional information. Always read product labels and consider individual factors when making dietary choices. We are not responsible for any inaccuracies or adverse effects resulting from the use of this information.

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Author

  • Diana

    Hey! I’m Diana. a 30-year-old culinary enthusiast with a passion for creating mouthwatering dishes that tantalize your taste buds. With over 15 years of cooking experience under my apron, I’ve spent countless hours in the kitchen honing my skills, experimenting with flavors, and discovering the most delectable recipes.

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