Authentic Polish Nalesniki: Thin Pancakes with Sweet Filling

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for frying
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 cup fresh fruits for topping
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  2. Heat a small amount of butter in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
  3. Pour a thin layer of the batter into the pan and spread it out by tilting the pan.
  4. Cook for about 2 minutes until the bottom is lightly browned, then flip and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes.
  5. Remove the cooked pancake from the pan and repeat the process with the rest of the batter.
  6. Once all pancakes are cooked, prepare the filling by mixing the ricotta cheese with honey.
  7. Spread a spoonful of the filling on each pancake and roll them up.
  8. Top the rolled pancakes with fresh fruits and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
  • Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a spiced flavor.
  • Replace the ricotta cheese filling with cottage cheese or cream cheese.
  • Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the batter for chocolate pancakes.
  • Top the pancakes with a drizzle of maple syrup or chocolate sauce instead of honey.
  • Include savory fillings such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or shredded chicken for a savory option.
  • Serve the pancakes with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a dessert version.

Recipe overview

Enjoy a taste of Poland with these delicious Nalesniki, or Polish pancakes. This recipe is straightforward and doesn't require any special ingredients, making it perfect for those new to Polish cuisine. With a delicate, slightly sweet batter and a rich ricotta filling, these pancakes can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Topped with fresh fruits and dusted with powdered sugar, they're a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you're serving them for breakfast or dessert, Nalesniki are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, the texture and taste may be slightly different.
  2. Can I use a different type of milk? Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, whether it's whole milk, skim milk, almond milk, or soy milk. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste.
  3. Can I omit the sugar? Yes, you can omit the sugar if you prefer a less sweet pancake. However, the sugar adds a touch of sweetness to the batter.
  4. What fruits can I use for topping? You can use any fresh fruits you like, such as berries, sliced bananas, or diced mango. Choose fruits that are in season for the best flavor.
  5. Can I make the pancakes ahead of time? Yes, you can make the pancakes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a pan or microwave before serving.
  6. Can I freeze the pancakes? Yes, you can freeze the pancakes by placing parchment paper between each pancake and storing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for whisking together the pancake batter.
  • Whisk - Used for whisking the ingredients together until smooth.
  • Non-stick Frying Pan - To cook the pancakes evenly without them sticking to the pan.
  • Spatula - For flipping and removing the pancakes from the pan.
  • Plate - To serve the cooked pancakes.
  • Spoons - For spreading the filling on the pancakes.
  • Knife - To slice and serve the filled pancakes.
  • Serving Platter - A platter or dish for presenting the rolled pancakes.
  • Powdered Sugar Shaker - For dusting powdered sugar over the pancakes before serving.

Origin stories

Nalesniki, often referred to as Polish pancakes, date back to the medieval times in Poland and are a staple of traditional Polish cuisine. Initially, they were made with just flour and water, but as time progressed, eggs and milk were added to enrich the batter. An intriguing fact about nalesniki is that they are not just limited to sweet variants, but also savory ones. They can be filled with meat, cheese, vegetables or even served with sour cream and dill. The beauty of these versatile pancakes is that they reflect the Polish ethos of making the most out of simple, everyday ingredients, turning them into something extraordinary and delightful. From the royal court to the humblest of peasant huts, nalesniki have been lovingly prepared, relished and passed down through generations, one savory or sweet bite at a time.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.