The most delicious Eastern Europe Pancakes
These sweet pancakes originate in the eastern part of our continent, Europe. They are made with farmer’s cheese (which should be on the drier side). In Russia, they are traditionally prepared with a type of curd cheese called tvorog. They are cooked in a pan, and the traditional method involves shaping them on a floured surface first, then frying them in oil. We used butter for frying, but you can easily substitute oil if you prefer.
Top reasons to love them:
- Extremely simple to prepare with easily accessible pantry ingredients
- Loved by both children and adults
- Serve them with fruit for a sweet, fruity side
- A wonderful breakfast or brunch — in our home, even a sweet dinner
- Golden and crisp on the outside, soft and delicate on the inside
- One syrnik has approximately 90 calories
What to serve with Syrniki
These farmer's cheese pancakes can be served in many ways, but our favorites are:
- Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Warm fruit made from berries during the colder months
- Fresh berries in the warmer months
- Homemade jam
- A dusting of powdered sugar for the perfect finishing touch
Storing and freezing
Syrniki are quick to make, so we also love serving them fresh. If any portions are left over, they can simply be stored in the refrigerator, or you can prepare them in advance and keep them in the freezer.
Once baked and cooled, place the syrniki in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before serving, reheat them in the microwave or in a pan on the stovetop.
You can also prepare them ahead of time, bake, and then store the cooled syrniki in an airtight container or a freezer bag. In the freezer, they will keep for up to 2 months. Before serving, allow them to thaw and then reheat.
How to make syrniki at home (video)
Check this short video to master making syrniki at home.
Next, try these pancake recipes
- How to make crepes
- Ricotta Crepe Gratin
- Pancakes
- Banana Oat Pancakes
- Pumpkin Pancakes
- Banana Chocolate Chip Pancakes
- Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes with Kefir
METHOD
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make the batter
Place the cottage cheese, all-purpose flour, egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, and baking powder into a bowl. Using a whisk or spatula, mix until smooth and well combined. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
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shape
Generously flour your work surface with all-purpose flour. Using an ice cream scoop, portion the syrniki mixture onto the floured surface. Lightly dust the tops with more flour and gently shape each portion into a round patty. For a more uniform and polished shape, place a large glass or a 7 cm (3-inch) round cookie (or doughnut) cutter over the patty and gently swirl it around to smooth the edges. Repeat the process until all the mixture is used. You should get 16 syrniki.
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cook
Place a frying pan over medium heat. Add a little butter and, once melted, add about four syrniki at a time — or as many as fit comfortably in the pan without touching each other. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they become beautifully golden brown. Repeat the process until all the syrniki are cooked.
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serve
Serve the cooked syrniki on plates, dust them with powdered sugar, and enjoy with Greek-style yogurt or cream, along with fresh berries or jam.
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