Russian Easter Dessert Cyrnaya Pascha
Indulge in the rich, creamy tradition of Russian Easter Dessert Cyrnaya Pascha, a festive no-bake treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Made with farmer’s cheese (or ricotta), velvety unsalted butter, and a hint of vanilla, this dessert is a symbol of celebration, featuring bursts of sweetness from raisins and candied fruits alongside optional crushed almonds and refreshing lemon zest for added texture and flavor. Prepared in a mold lined with cheesecloth, Cyrnaya Pascha is gently pressed and chilled overnight to achieve its signature shape, making it the ultimate centerpiece for your Easter table. Serve it adorned with dried fruit, nuts, or edible flowers, and enjoy this luxurious masterpiece that perfectly balances decadence and tradition. Perfect for Easter gatherings, this unique Russian dessert is sure to captivate your guests.
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Ingredients
- 500 g farmer's cheese (or ricotta cheese)
- 100 g unsalted butter
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 100 ml heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 pcs egg yolks
- 50 g raisins
- 50 g chopped candied fruit
- 30 g chopped almonds (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
Directions
Step 1
Line a pascha mold or small fine-mesh strainer with damp cheesecloth, ensuring the edges hang over the sides. Place a bowl underneath to catch any liquid.
Step 2
In a large bowl, press the farmer's cheese through a fine sieve, or process it in a blender or food processor until smooth.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar using a mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4
Add the egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5
Slowly heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until warm (do not boil). Gradually add the cream to the egg mixture in small increments, mixing well to avoid curdling.
Step 6
Place the butter and egg mixture in the saucepan and cook over very low heat while stirring continuously. Heat until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes, but do not let it boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
Step 7
Add the smooth farmer's cheese, raisins, candied fruit, chopped almonds (if using), and lemon zest (if using) to the cooled butter mixture. Mix until fully combined.
Step 8
Transfer the mixture into the prepared cheesecloth-lined mold. Fold the overhanging cheesecloth over the top, pressing gently with your hands to level the surface.
Step 9
Place a small plate or lid on top of the mold and weigh it down with a can or heavy object. Refrigerate overnight, allowing any excess liquid to drain.
Step 10
Carefully invert the mold onto a serving plate, remove the cheesecloth, and gently lift the mold. Decorate with additional dried fruits, nuts, or edible flowers before serving. Serve chilled.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (937.2g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2432.5 |
| Total Fat 169.2g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 89.4g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g | |
| Cholesterol 959.9mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1945.0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 165.9g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 6.2g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 148.2g | |
| Protein 73.5g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 54.9IU | 0% |
| Calcium 622.5mg | 0% |
| Iron 3.9mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1236.5mg | 0% |
Source of Calories