Homemade Syrniki: Traditional Russian Cheese Pancakes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of Farmer Cheese
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 3 tablespoons of Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of Vanilla Extract
  • 1/4 cup of Semolina
  • 1/4 cup of All-Purpose Flour, plus more for dusting
  • 3 tablespoons of unsalted Butter
  • Confectioners' Sugar, for dusting
  • Sour Cream or Jam, for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the farmer cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
  2. Add the semolina and all-purpose flour to the bowl. Stir to combine, making sure that there are no lumps in the batter.
  3. Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt, coating the bottom of the pan.
  4. Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the batter and shape them into small, flat patties. Dust each patty lightly with additional flour on both sides.
  5. Place the patties in the hot butter and fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
  6. Remove the syrniki from the pan and drain them on paper towels to remove excess butter.
  7. Dust the syrniki with confectioners' sugar and serve hot, with sour cream or jam on the side.

Tools for making

  • Large Bowl - Used for mixing the ingredients together.
  • Frying Pan - Used to fry the syrniki patties.
  • Tablespoon - Used to scoop and shape the batter into patties.
  • Paper Towels - Used to drain excess butter from the syrniki after frying.
  • Spatula or Flipper - Used to flip the syrniki patties while frying.

Recipe variations

  • Replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  • Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor.
  • Mix in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries to add some sweetness and texture.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic flavor.
  • Replace the semolina with cornmeal for a slightly different texture.
  • Try using ricotta cheese instead of farmer cheese for a creamier texture.
  • For a savory twist, add chopped herbs such as dill, parsley, or chives to the batter.
  • Make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
  • Create a vegan version by using tofu or mashed banana instead of eggs, and coconut oil instead of butter.

Recipe overview

Syrniki is a traditional Eastern European dish that is commonly served for breakfast or dessert. These delightful patties are made from farmer cheese, eggs, and a touch of flour and semolina, resulting in a soft and slightly tangy interior with a crispy exterior. They are typically fried until golden brown and served with a dusting of confectioners' sugar and a side of sour cream or jam. This recipe will guide you through the process of making your own syrniki at home with simple, everyday ingredients. In just a few steps, you'll be able to enjoy these delicious cheese fritters. Whether you have them for breakfast, dessert, or a tasty snack, syrniki is a treat that is sure to please!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of farmer cheese? No, farmer cheese is a key ingredient in this recipe and provides the unique texture and flavor. Using a different type of cheese may alter the results.
  2. Can I substitute the semolina with something else? It is best to use semolina in this recipe as it helps bind the ingredients together and gives the syrniki a nice texture. Substituting it with another ingredient may not yield the same results.
  3. Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This can be convenient for making the syrniki fresh in the morning or for meal prepping.
  4. What should I serve with syrniki? Syrniki are traditionally served with sour cream or jam. You can choose your favorite jam flavor or try different combinations to find your preferred pairing.
  5. Can I freeze the cooked syrniki? Yes, you can freeze the cooked syrniki for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in a pan or oven.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Syrniki, a traditional Eastern European dish, have a humble but intriguing origin. They hail from the region of Russia and Ukraine, where they were historically a way to make use of leftover cheese. The name "Syrniki" comes from the word "syr" which means cheese in Russian. Despite their simple beginnings, these fried cheese pancakes have become a beloved treat in many households, not only for breakfast but also as a satisfying dessert. They are typically served with sour cream, jam, honey, or even apple sauce. It's not uncommon for Russian and Ukrainian families to have their unique recipes for Syrnikis, passed down through generations, each with its own special touch. In this region, cooking is more than just a daily task; it's a way to preserve history, culture, and family traditions.

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.