Pashka
A traditional Russian sweet cheese dessert, shaped into a pyramid, typically prepared for Orthodox Easter celebrations. It's rich, creamy, and studded with candied fruits for a delightful texture and flavor.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Farmer's cheese (tvorog)
- 200 g Unsalted butter
- 200 g Granulated sugar
- 150 g Candied fruits
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 2 Optional: Egg yolks
- 1 tsp Optional: Lemon zest
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cheese: If your farmer's cheese (tvorog) is moist, place it in a cheesecloth-lined sieve set over a bowl. Press down gently to remove as much liquid (whey) as possible. For very wet cheese, you might need to let it drain for an hour or two in the refrigerator. Then, pass the dry cheese through a fine-mesh sieve at least twice. This step is crucial for a smooth, creamy texture. Aim for a consistency similar to ricotta or cream cheese.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 2
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. If using egg yolks, whisk them in now until well combined and the mixture is pale yellow. Stir in the vanilla extract and optional lemon zest.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Combine ingredients: Add the sieved farmer's cheese to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat on low speed until just combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the pashka tough. Gently fold in the finely chopped candied fruits until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Assemble the pashka: Line a pashka mold (or a small sieve/colander) with damp cheesecloth, leaving enough overhang to fold over the top. Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into the mold, pressing down firmly to eliminate any air pockets. Ensure the mixture is packed tightly and evenly. Fold the overhanging cheesecloth over the top of the mixture.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Chill and drain: Place a small plate or a weight on top of the cheesecloth-covered mixture. Place the mold on a rack over a tray or bowl to catch any draining liquid. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, and preferably 24 hours, to allow the pashka to set and drain completely. The longer it drains, the firmer it will be.
⏱️ 12-24 hours - 6
Unmold and serve: Carefully unfold the cheesecloth from the top. Invert the mold onto a serving plate. Gently lift the mold and peel away the cheesecloth. The pashka should hold its pyramid shape. Decorate with additional candied fruits, nuts, or edible flowers if desired. Serve chilled.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓A traditional pashka mold is pyramid-shaped, but a sieve or colander lined with cheesecloth will also work.
- ✓Ensure the farmer's cheese is as dry as possible for the best texture.
- ✓Pashka is traditionally served during Orthodox Easter, often alongside Kulich (a sweet Easter bread).
- ✓The longer the pashka drains, the firmer it will become, making it easier to unmold and decorate.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add 50g of finely chopped toasted nuts (like almonds or walnuts) along with the candied fruits.
- Incorporate 50g of dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate for a decadent twist.
- Use a combination of dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots, finely chopped.