Contents
Papanasi are classic Romanian fried cheese doughnuts, soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, served warm with sour cream and sour cherry jam. This traditional dessert is comforting, nostalgic, and incredibly delicious – the perfect sweet treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 400 g Romanian cottage cheese (or well-drained substitute)
- 250 g self-raising flour
- 2 eggs
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- A pinch of salt
- Oil for frying (enough for shallow frying)
For Serving:
- Sour cream (minimum 18% fat)
- 1 jar sour cherry jam (or homemade runny berry jam)
- Icing sugar (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, eggs, lemon zest, vanilla sugar, and salt.
- Add the self-raising flour gradually and mix to form a sticky dough.
- Let the dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Dust your hands with flour and shape the dough into rings and small balls.
- Heat oil in a shallow or deep pan.
- Fry the rings and balls in batches for about 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Plate each serving with one ring and one ball.
- Top with a generous spoon of sour cream and cherry jam.
- Dust with icing sugar and serve hot. Enjoy!
Notes
Papanasi – Romania’s Beloved Cheese Doughnuts
One of the most iconic desserts in Romania, papanasi (pronounced pah-pah-nash) are golden, fluffy cheese doughnuts served warm, topped with smooth sour cream and a spoonful of tangy sour cherry jam. They are a favorite across the country and appear on nearly every traditional restaurant menu. Once you’ve tasted them, it’s easy to understand why they’re so adored! 🍒🍩 Despite looking like something straight out of a pastry shop, papanasi are surprisingly simple to make at home with just a few basic ingredients. This recipe will guide you through the process so you can enjoy authentic Romanian flavors right from your own kitchen. 💭 A Taste of TraditionPapanasi are more than just a sweet treat – they symbolize comfort, celebration, and the joy of sharing food. For generations, they’ve been served at family gatherings, festive meals, and countryside celebrations. Whether enjoyed in a rustic village home or discovered on your first trip to Romania, papanasi capture the essence of Romanian hospitality and culinary heritage. ❤️
🍽️ Recipe Notes & Pro Tips
- The dough will feel sticky – that’s normal. Avoid adding too much extra flour.
- Lightly dust your hands with flour to shape the dough more easily.
- Shallow frying works well and uses less oil; just keep the dough from sticking.
- Can’t find sour cherry jam? Make your own by simmering cherries with sugar and a splash of lemon juice.
- Use sour cream with at least 18% fat for the most authentic, rich taste.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make papanasi ahead of time?Yes, but they’re best served fresh and warm. If you must store them, let them cool completely, then keep in an airtight container for up to one day. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Can I store leftovers?
Yes, but the texture won’t be quite the same. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may make them tough. 🇷🇴 Why Everyone Loves Papanasi
With their crisp exterior, soft cheesy center, cool sour cream, and fruity jam, papanasi deliver the perfect balance of flavors and textures. They are festive, comforting, and uniquely Romanian. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy something sweet, this dessert is sure to bring smiles to the table. ✨ Bring a taste of Romania into your home with this easy and authentic recipe for papanasi – and celebrate tradition, one bite at a time! 💛
Oh my goodness, these Papanasi look amazing! That sour cherry jam with the warm, crispy doughnuts and sour cream… I’m drooling just reading the recipe. Definitely adding this to my “must-try” list! The homemade jam option sounds especially tempting.