Pashka(A Russian Orthodox Easter Feast Favorite) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 lb. cream cheese
4 oz. butter, softened
4 oz. sugar
1 egg yolk
1/2 tsp. vanilla essence
grated rind of 1 lemon
3 Tbsp. sultanas or seedless raisins
2 Tbsp. raisins
2 Tbsp. slivered almonds, toasted
1 Tbsp. chopped glace cherries

Preparation

Place the cream cheese in a large wire strainer set over a small mixing bowl.
Cover the cheese with a clean cloth and place a heavy weight on top.
Leave the cheese to drain for at least 1 1/2 hours.
Discard any liquid in the bowl.
Transfer the cheese to a large bowl.
With a wooden spoon, beat the butter into the cheese a little at a time and continue beating until the mixture is blended.