If you’re ready for a taste of classic Romanian comfort, get ready to fall in love with Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam. These fluffy, golden doughnuts marry the mild freshness of tangy cheese with pillowy dough, and become blissfully decadent when topped with cool sour cream and a generous spoonful of jewel-bright fruit jam. Every bite is soft, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet, making these a showstopper whether you’re sharing with friends, family, or simply treating yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
While it might seem like magic when you bite into these, Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam require nothing but classic pantry staples and a bit of fresh cheese. Each ingredient has a role to play, from the cheese’s subtle tang to the fluffy lift of baking powder—everything brings something special to the party!
- Farmer’s cheese or dry cottage cheese (1 cup/250g): The true heart of Papanasi, it delivers softness and a delicate, tangy flavor—make sure it’s well pressed and dry for the best texture.
- Large egg (1): Provides structure and binds the dough, ensuring everything stays together when frying.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons, plus more for dusting): A little goes a long way for holding the dough together and giving it a gentle bite.
- Semolina (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle, pleasant graininess that keeps each doughnut tender but not too dense.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Just enough for a hint of sweetness that complements the toppings.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): The secret to achieving that irresistible, fluffy interior.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the entire flavor profile and balances the sweet and tangy notes.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Heats up crisply and evenly—go for a neutral oil and monitor that temperature for golden perfection.
- Sour cream (for serving): Adds rich coolness that melts into the hot, freshly fried doughnuts. Don’t skimp!
- Fruit jam, berry or apricot (for serving): Sweet, tart jam contrasts beautifully and gives these doughnuts their signature finish.
How to Make Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, take your farmer’s cheese or dry cottage cheese and mash it well using a fork. Aim for a consistency that resembles coarse crumbs—this ensures a perfectly even dough that won’t be lumpy once fried. The cheese is what sets Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam apart from ordinary doughnuts, so take your time here!
Step 2: Mix the Dough
To the mashed cheese, add the egg, all-purpose flour, semolina, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon or clean hands until you have a soft, slightly sticky dough. You want everything blended, but don’t overwork it—gentle mixing creates a tender dough that fries up light and pillowy.
Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts
Dust your work surface lightly with flour and turn out the dough. Knead it gently for just a minute—enough to make it cohesive and smooth. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Next, form 5 of these into plump, round balls. The final piece will be cut into 5 smaller balls; these little rounds will become the whimsical “tops” that traditional Papanasi are known for.
Step 4: Form the Indentation and Attach the Tops
Gently flatten each of your 5 larger balls, pressing a deep indentation in the center with your thumb (think of a shallow well for your toppings to nestle into). Place one of the tiny dough balls on top of each larger one, pressing just lightly to secure. This two-part construction is what makes these doughnuts iconic and a little bit charming.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Fill a deep pot with about 2 inches of vegetable oil and bring it to 350°F (175°C). Test with a thermometer or drop in a scrap of dough to check for sizzling readiness. Carefully lower each assembled doughnut into the oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Each one will need about 2–3 minutes per side—flip as necessary until you see a beautifully deep golden color. Remove with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels for maximum crispiness.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Now comes the fun part! Spread a generous dollop of sour cream over the still-warm doughnuts, right into that central indentation and over the top ball. Spoon your favorite berry or apricot jam over the cream—watch it melt and cascade down the sides. Serve immediately and revel in your handiwork!
How to Serve Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam
Garnishes
The classic combination for serving Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam is a big spoonful of sour cream topped with vibrant fruit jam. You can get creative with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a handful of fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey to make each plate look extra festive and inviting.
Side Dishes
Since papanasi are rich and indulgent, pair them with something light and refreshing—try a fruit salad or a cup of strong black coffee or tea. If you’re serving them as part of a larger spread, consider offering a platter of fresh-cut citrus or even sparkling water laced with mint to help balance the flavors and cleanse the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam in individual ramekins, layered parfait-style with alternating layers of mini doughnuts, sour cream, and swirls of jam. Or, assemble them on a platter stacked high, with extra toppings on the side so everyone can build their own perfect bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam (which is a rare event!), let them cool completely, then place in an airtight container. They’ll keep at room temperature for a few hours, but are best stored in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain their texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked and cooled doughnuts (without toppings) in a single layer, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When the craving strikes, just thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter and you’re ready for round two!
Reheating
To recapture that just-fried taste, reheat the doughnuts in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them chewy. Add your sour cream and jam only after reheating to maintain fresh flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use ricotta cheese instead of farmer’s cheese?
Yes, ricotta can work if it’s very well-drained and pressed to remove excess moisture, but traditional farmer’s cheese or well-dried cottage cheese delivers a texture and tang closest to authentic Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Choose a neutral, high-smoke-point oil like sunflower, canola, or vegetable oil for frying. These oils ensure your doughnuts cook evenly and don’t take on any unwanted flavors.
Can I make the dough in advance?
You can mix the dough a few hours ahead and store it, wrapped tightly, in the fridge. Shape and fry just before serving for the freshest, fluffiest results.
What kind of jam should I use?
Berry jams (such as raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry) and apricot jam are most traditional for Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam, but you can use any fruit jam you adore—homemade or store-bought both work beautifully.
Are Papanasi gluten-free?
As written, this recipe does include flour and semolina, so it’s not gluten-free. For a gluten-free version, try substituting with your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour and fine cornmeal or gluten-free semolina alternatives.
Final Thoughts
Making and sharing Papanasi – Romanian Doughnuts with Cream & Jam is one of those true kitchen joys: they’re playful to shape, deeply satisfying to eat, and an absolute treat with every bite. If you’re looking to try something new that will instantly win hearts, I can’t recommend these enough—give them a whirl and you just might find a new favorite for your own table!