Plăcinte cu Brânză (Moldovan Cheese Pastries)
Discover the delightful taste of Moldovan cuisine with Plăcinte cu Brânză, a traditional pastry filled with a creamy, tangy cheese mixture. Perfect as a breakfast treat, snack, or dessert, these pastries are flaky, golden, and irresistibly comforting.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 250 ml warm milk
- 1 egg
- 50 g sugar
- 50 g butter, melted
- 7 g dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 400 g fresh cow’s cheese (ricotta or feta-style)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Brushing:
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and a teaspoon of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic.
Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, until it doubles in size.
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Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the cheese, egg, sugar, vanilla (if using), and a pinch of salt until creamy and smooth.
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Assemble the Plăcinte
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Divide the dough into small portions (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each portion into a thin circle.
Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges well. You can shape them into half-moons or squares.
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Bake
Arrange the pastries on the prepared tray. Brush the tops with beaten egg.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Serve
Serve Plăcinte cu Brânză warm, dusted with powdered sugar or alongside a cup of tea or coffee.
Serving
These pastries are perfect for family breakfasts, festive gatherings, or as a sweet snack any time of day. Their soft, cheesy interior and golden, flaky exterior are sure to delight both young and old alike.
