Syrniki Recipe (Russian Cheese Pancakes)
Ingredients
- 1 lb farmer's cheese
see notes before getting started
- 2 eggs
- ½ + ½ cup all purpose flour
divided), or more as needed (see notes
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ cup raisins
- 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil
for frying
Directions
- 1
Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, crumble the farmers cheese into little pieces with a fork (make sure to strain it first if your farmer's cheese is not crumbly! See notes).
- 2
Add 2 eggs and mix well. Add ½ cup flour (reserve ⅓ cup for step 2), sugar, and salt. Mix well, using the fork to break apart any clumps of flour or farmer's cheese. Add raisins, if using. The 'batter' will be thick like dough, not like traditional pancake batter.
- 3
Form the syrniki pancakes: Prepare a small bowl with about ⅓ cup flour - you will use it to dredge the pancakes. Scoop out approximately ¼ cup pancake dough at a time. (See recipe notes below). Use your hands to gently flatten the dough into a small patty. Dredge the pancake with flour on both sides. Shake off the extra flour and set aside until you are ready to cook the syrniki pancakes.
- 4
Cook the syrniki pancakes: In a large skillet, heat 3-4 tablespoons of vegetable oil, and gently place the flour-dredged cheese pancakes into the pan using a spatula. Cook on medium-low heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown. Place on a paper towel to cool. Do not crowd the pancakes - cook them in 2-3 batches if necessary.
- 5
To serve, sprinkle with powdered sugar, or drizzle with maple syrup, honey, whipped cream. Or try these syrniki the traditional Russian way - with sour cream and your favorite fruit preserves.
Syrniki Recipe (Russian Cheese Pancakes)
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About this Recipe
Dreaming of a unique, comforting breakfast that's far from the ordinary? Dive into the delightful world of Syrniki, the beloved Russian cheese pancakes, offering a pillowy-soft texture and delicious cheesy goodness perfect for any morning.
Why These Syrniki Shine
What makes these Russian cheese pancakes so special is the clever use of farmer's cheese. This creamy, tangy base is the secret to their signature pillowy-soft interior and subtly cheesy flavor, setting them apart from traditional flour-based pancakes. With just a few staple ingredients and simple steps, you'll create a breakfast treat that feels both indulgent and surprisingly easy.
What to Expect
Prepare for a truly delightful culinary experience. Each Syrniki is a golden-brown disc, crispy on the outside from frying, yet incredibly light and fluffy within. The taste is a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy, with the gentle savoriness of the cheese shining through, complemented by the optional addition of sweet raisins. They are substantial enough to be satisfying but delicate enough to feel like a special occasion, making them an instant family favorite for weekend breakfasts or a special brunch spread.
Customization & Variations
This Syrniki recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences. For a touch of sweetness and chewiness, incorporate the optional ½ cup of raisins into your batter. You might also find that the exact amount of flour needed can vary slightly, so be prepared to adjust as necessary to achieve the perfect pancake consistency.
Serving & Context
Serve these warm, inviting Russian cheese pancakes for a memorable breakfast or brunch. They are incredibly versatile with toppings; enjoy them with a drizzle of your favorite syrup, a generous dollop of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt, or a spoonful of vibrant fruit preserves for a burst of flavor.