Cheese Paska
Creamy, sweet cheese Paska with raisins and almonds, perfect for celebrations or special occasions, offering rich flavors and a delightful texture for cheese lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend together well the cream cheese and cottage cheese.
- Add softened butter and cream together.
- Gradually add sugar and mix until smooth.
- Add egg yolks and beat.
- Mix well.
- Fold in vanilla, raisins, and almonds.
- Place in cheesecloth and put in a mold (clay flowerpot or special mold, if available).
- Cover well and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.
- Remove from mold and decorate with cherries.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before blending. You can substitute the blanched almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor. If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the confectioners' sugar slightly. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg for a warm spice note. This recipe is perfect for those following vegetarian recipes, as it uses no meat ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheese Paska as a delightful dessert or a festive treat during holidays. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like berries or slices of citrus. For an added touch, drizzle with a fruit syrup or honey. Consider serving alongside a light salad, such as Maurice Salad Dressing, to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cheese Paska in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you need to reheat, do so gently in a microwave for a few seconds to avoid compromising the texture. Alternatively, serve it chilled for a refreshing treat. Make sure to avoid freezing, as it may change the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Paska contains roughly 1492 calories, with 28g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 798mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture and richness of the final product. For the best results, mixing it with regular cream cheese can help maintain creaminess while reducing calories.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you don't have cottage cheese on hand, ricotta cheese is a great substitute. It offers a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative for this recipe.
Is it necessary to use a mold for this recipe?
While using a mold helps shape the Cheese Paska for an attractive presentation, it is not strictly necessary. You can also serve it in a bowl or spread it on a platter, though it may not hold its shape as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).