Paskha

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350F.
2. 2
   Use some of the butter to liberally grease an 8-inch cake pan.
3. 3
   Line the bottom with wax paper and butter that too.
4. 4
   Put the remaining butter in a food processor along with all but a tablespoon of the sugar and the farmer cheese and sour cream; process until very, very smooth; there should be no lumps at all.
5. 5
   Add the egg yolks, vanilla, and potato starch and once again process until very smooth.
6. 6
   Whisk the egg whites until foamy, then add the remaining sugar; continue to whisk until they hold soft peaks.
7. 7
   Fold in the cheese mixture, along with the raisins if youre using them.
8. 8
   Pour into the cake pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until just firm.
9. 9
   Cool, then unmold.
10. 10
    Toast the almonds in a small dry skillet over medium heat, shaking the pan frequently until they color slightly.
11. 11
    Press the almonds into the top of the paskha, chill, and serve.