If you’ve ever wished for a warm, comforting treat that carries the soul of Ukrainian cuisine, look no further than this Syrniki Recipe (Ukrainian Cheese Pancakes) Recipe. These delightful little pancakes are packed with creamy farmer’s cheese and a subtle sweetness, creating a tender, golden crust with a melt-in-your-mouth center. Whether you’re new to Eastern European cooking or a longtime fan, these pancakes offer the perfect blend of simplicity and irresistible flavor, making breakfast or brunch feel extra special every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the texture and taste of Syrniki. Each element plays an important role, from the richness of the farmer’s cheese to the lightness the flour and baking powder bring. Trust me, you probably have most of these in your kitchen already!
- 1 lb farmer’s cheese: This fresh cheese is the heart of the dish; if unavailable, well-drained ricotta or cottage cheese works great too.
- 2 eggs: Bind everything together, giving structure and richness to the batter.
- 1 tsp vanilla: Adds a warm, sweet aroma that enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dredging): Provides just enough bulk to hold the pancakes without making them heavy.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Lightens the texture for a fluffy, tender bite.
- ¼ cup sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cheese with a gentle sweetness.
- ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- ½ cup dried cherries or raisins (optional): Adds bursts of fruity sweetness and chewiness that make every mouthful interesting.
- 8 tbsp avocado oil (or vegetable/light oil): For frying, giving you a golden, crispy exterior without overpowering the delicate flavors inside.
How to Make Syrniki Recipe (Ukrainian Cheese Pancakes) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by placing the farmer’s cheese into a large bowl and break it up slightly with a fork. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until everything is combined. Next, sift together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt, then gently fold these dry ingredients into the cheese mixture. If you’re using dried cherries or raisins, stir them in now. The batter should feel thick but soft, ready to be shaped into your little pancakes.
Step 2: Shape the Syrniki
Lightly flour your hands as well as a clean surface. Scoop a generous tablespoon of batter and roll it into a ball, then gently flatten it into a pancake about ½ inch thick. Dredge each pancake lightly in the additional flour to help them get that crisp golden crust when cooking. This part feels like crafting little edible treasures — have fun with it!
Step 3: Heat the Pan and Oil
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour in the avocado oil. It’s important the oil is hot enough so the pancakes sizzle when they hit the pan but not so hot that they burn too quickly. This step ensures those cherished golden edges and a soft interior.
Step 4: Fry the Pancakes
Place the syrniki in the hot pan without crowding, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on one side until the bottom is a beautiful deep gold. Carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect balance of crispy outside and creamy, tender inside.
Step 5: Drain and Cool Slightly
Once cooked, transfer the syrniki to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil. Let them rest just a minute or two; this brief pause helps lock in their shape and texture before serving them up hot and inviting.
How to Serve Syrniki Recipe (Ukrainian Cheese Pancakes) Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of syrniki is how versatile they are with toppings. Classic garnishes include a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, drizzles of honey or fruit preserves, and fresh berries for a pop of freshness. Each adds layers of flavor and a creamy contrast to the lightly crispy pancakes.
Side Dishes
These cheesy treats pair wonderfully with fresh fruit salads or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette if you want to balance sweet with savory. For a heartier brunch, consider serving syrniki alongside scrambled eggs or smoked salmon—unexpected but delicious!
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Syrniki Recipe (Ukrainian Cheese Pancakes) Recipe to the next level by stacking them like mini towers, layering whipped cream and berries between each pancake. Or skewering smaller syrniki with fruit and serving as a sweet appetizer. A dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar just before serving adds an inviting finishing touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They tend to soften a bit but still hold onto their creamy flavor and texture.
Freezing
Syrniki freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together. Frozen syrniki can be kept for up to 2 months and make a quick, delicious snack or breakfast.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your syrniki in a non-stick pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy again. You can also use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving as it can make them too soft or rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for Syrniki?
While traditional syrniki use farmer’s cheese, you can substitute well-drained ricotta or cottage cheese. They provide a similar texture, but avoid anything too wet or you’ll need to adjust the flour.
Are syrniki sweet or savory?
Syrniki are generally sweet but mildly so, relying on a touch of sugar and vanilla in the batter. They can easily be adapted to be more savory by omitting sugar and adding herbs or spices.
What’s the best oil to fry syrniki in?
Use a light-tasting oil with a high smoke point like avocado or vegetable oil. This helps create a crispy exterior without adding unwanted flavors.
How can I make syrniki gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind this might slightly alter the texture, so you might need to adjust the amount of flour for the best consistency.
Can syrniki be served cold?
Yes, syrniki can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but they’re best served warm to appreciate their tender, creamy interior and crispy crust.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something comforting, delicious, and a little out of the ordinary, the Syrniki Recipe (Ukrainian Cheese Pancakes) Recipe is an absolute must-try. They’re simple to make but deliver big on flavor and nostalgia. Invite some friends, pour a cup of tea, and enjoy these tender little pancakes straight from the pan. You’ll find yourself coming back again and again for that perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crispy.
Print
Syrniki Recipe (Ukrainian Cheese Pancakes) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Ukrainian
Description
Syrniki are traditional Ukrainian cheese pancakes made with farmer’s cheese, eggs, and flour, lightly sweetened and often studded with dried fruit. These golden, fluffy pancakes are pan-fried until crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for a comforting breakfast or dessert served with sour cream, honey, or jam.
Ingredients
Main 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, for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the farmer’s cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, sugar, and salt. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This ensures the base for your syrniki is well combined for even texture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in the baking powder and ½ cup of flour into the cheese mixture. Stir gently until fully incorporated. Then fold in the dried cherries or raisins if using. The flour helps bind the mixture while the baking powder adds lightness.
- Shape the Pancakes: Lightly flour your hands and take a portion of the mixture to form small, thick patties about 2 to 3 inches wide. Dredge each patty in the remaining ½ cup of flour to coat lightly. This step helps create a crisp outer layer when frying.
- Heat the Oil and Fry: In a non-stick skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the syrniki patties in batches, frying them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat to avoid burning, cooking thoroughly through.
- Serve Warm: Remove the syrniki from the pan and drain on paper towels briefly. Serve warm with sour cream, honey, fresh berries, or your favorite jam for a delightful traditional taste.
Notes
- Use well-drained cheese to avoid excess moisture which can make the batter too wet.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
- Adjust sugar according to your taste or omit for a savory version.
- Dried fruit like cherries or raisins add a pleasant sweetness but can be omitted or replaced with fresh berries.
- Serve immediately for best texture; syrniki tend to lose crispness when cooled.
