Name: Syrniki Recipe (Ukrainian Cheese Pancakes) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Ingredients: 1 lb farmer’s cheese (or well-drained ricotta or cottage cheese); 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup all-purpose flour (plus ½ cup for dredging); ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ cup sugar; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup dried cherries or raisins (optional); 8 tbsp avocado oil (or vegetable oil or any light oil)

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Introduction

Syrniki are delightful Ukrainian cheese pancakes made with farmer’s cheese, offering a tender and slightly sweet treat. These golden patties are perfect for breakfast or dessert and pair wonderfully with a variety of toppings.

Three small, round pancakes with a golden caramelized top sit on a white plate with subtle ridges. Each pancake has a dollop of white cream on top, and fresh dark blue blueberries rest on and around the pancakes. A spoon holds a bite-sized piece of pancake with cream and a blueberry. The plate is on a white marbled surface, next to a small branch with green leaves and dark purple berries. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb farmer’s cheese (or well drained ricotta or cottage cheese)
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
½ cup all purpose flour (plus ½ cup for dredging)
½ tsp baking powder
¼ cup sugar
¼ tsp salt
½ cup dried cherries or raisins (optional)
8 tbsp avocado oil (or vegetable oil or any light oil, for frying)

Instructions

Step 1: If using dried fruit, soak the dried cherries or raisins in hot water to soften while preparing the batter. This step is optional and can be skipped if not using dried fruit.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, farmer’s cheese, and vanilla until combined.
Step 3: Sift in ½ cup flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix gently with a fork until everything is combined into a thick dough-like batter.
Step 4: If desired, divide the batter in half and stir the softened dried fruit into one half. You can also add fruit to the entire batter if preferred.
Step 5: On a plate, spread ½ cup flour for dredging. Use a cookie scoop to portion the batter onto the flour, then gently roll each portion in the flour. Form each into a patty shape by pressing gently with your hands, dusting off any excess flour.
Step 6: Heat 3-4 tablespoons of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, sprinkle a little flour into the pan—if it sizzles, it’s ready.
Step 7: Carefully place the flour-coated syrniki into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Avoid crowding the pan; cook in batches if needed.
Step 8: Transfer the cooked syrniki to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and cool slightly.
Step 9: Serve warm, topped with powdered sugar, maple syrup, honey, sour cream, or fresh berries as preferred.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother texture, you can press farmer’s cheese through a fine sieve before mixing.
Experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots.
Use a combination of half flour and half semolina for a slightly different texture.
Serve with fresh fruit preserves or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Storage

Store leftover syrniki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to retain crispy edges. They can also be frozen; thaw fully and reheat before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with brown stripe designs, filled with golden brown, round, thick pancakes that have a slightly crispy texture and dark spots from cooking. The pancakes are stacked in a casual pile, and some have visible bits, possibly blueberries, inside. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a small white bowl of cream or yogurt nearby, and a cluster of blueberries with green leaves to one side. Part of another white plate with pancake slices topped with cream and blueberries is visible at the bottom right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use cottage cheese instead of farmer’s cheese?

Yes, well-drained cottage cheese or ricotta can be used as a substitute for farmer’s cheese. Just make sure to remove excess moisture to avoid soggy batter.

How do I prevent syrniki from sticking to the pan?

Ensure your skillet is well heated and well oiled before adding the pancakes. Use a nonstick pan for best results, and avoid overcrowding so they fry evenly without sticking.