Name: Fluffy Syrniki – The Best Cottage Cheese Pancakes You’ll Ever Have
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably full-fat); 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Oil or butter for frying

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If you’ve never tried Syrniki, you’re in for a treat! These fluffy, golden-brown cottage cheese pancakes are a staple in Eastern European kitchens, and once you make them, you’ll see why. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and just slightly sweet—perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. Serve them with sour cream, honey, or fresh berries for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy edges, soft center – The perfect pancake texture!
Just a few ingredients – Simple pantry staples make these easy to whip up.
Lightly sweet and tangy – A unique flavor you won’t get from regular pancakes.
Versatile – Enjoy them sweet or savory, depending on your mood.

Ingredients

(Full list of ingredients below!)

Cottage cheese (preferably full-fat)
Eggs
Sugar
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Vanilla extract
Salt
Oil or butter for frying

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Batter

In a bowl, mix cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until combined. Stir in the flour and baking powder until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but hold its shape.

Step 2: Shape the Pancakes

Dust your hands with flour and form small patties (about ½-inch thick). Lightly coat them in extra flour to help them crisp up.

Step 3: Fry Until Golden

Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil or butter. Fry the Syrniki for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Top with sour cream, honey, jam, or powdered sugar, and enjoy them warm!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use dry cottage cheese – If your cottage cheese is too wet, strain it in a cheesecloth for 15-20 minutes.
Don’t overwork the batter – Mix just until combined for fluffy pancakes.
Adjust sweetness – Add more or less sugar depending on how sweet you like them.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Make them gluten-free – Swap regular flour for almond or oat flour.
Add raisins – A traditional touch for extra sweetness.
Go savory – Skip the sugar and vanilla, and serve with herbs and sour cream.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Classic: Sour cream and honey
Fruity: Fresh berries and jam
Indulgent: Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce

Storage and Reheating Tips

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked Syrniki for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in a pan or microwave for a few seconds.

FAQs

Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
Yes! Just make sure to drain it well.
Why are my pancakes falling apart?
The batter might be too wet—add a little more flour to help bind it.
Do I have to fry them?
Frying gives them the best texture, but you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate it for a few hours, but shape and cook just before serving.

Conclusion

Syrniki are crispy, soft, and deliciously simple, making them a perfect breakfast or snack. Whether you keep it classic with sour cream or get creative with toppings, these cottage cheese pancakes are a must-try!

Fluffy Syrniki – The Best Cottage Cheese Pancakes You’ll Ever Have

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Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Pan-fried
Cuisine: Eastern European
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup cottage cheese (preferably full-fat)
1 large egg
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Oil or butter for frying

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Instructions

Prep the Batter
In a bowl, mix cottage cheese, egg, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Stir in the flour and baking powder until a soft dough forms. The mixture should be slightly sticky but hold its shape.
Shape the Pancakes
Dust your hands with flour and form small patties (about ½-inch thick). Lightly coat them in extra flour to help them crisp up while frying.
Fry Until Golden
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a little oil or butter. Fry the Syrniki for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
Top with sour cream, honey, jam, or powdered sugar, and enjoy them warm!

Notes

Use dry cottage cheese – If your cottage cheese is too wet, strain it in a cheesecloth for 15-20 minutes.
Don’t overwork the batter – Mix just until combined for the fluffiest pancakes.
Adjust sweetness – Add more or less sugar depending on your preference.