If you’re craving a comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug, then this Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apples (Syrniki) Recipe is just the thing. Originating from Eastern Europe, these delightful little pancakes blend the creamy tang of farmers cheese with the natural sweetness and fresh crunch of finely diced apples. Each bite is a perfect balance of soft, fluffy texture and subtle fruity bursts, making them a versatile dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack. Trust me, once you try these syrniki, you’ll find yourself reaching for them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with every ingredient playing a key role in creating that perfect texture and flavor. From the creamy farmers cheese to the fragrant cinnamon, these pantry basics come together beautifully.
- 2 cups farmers cheese: The heart of the dish, providing a creamy and slightly tangy base that’s richer than regular cheese.
- 4 large eggs: These bind the ingredients and add a lovely fluffiness to the pancakes.
- 3/4 cups all-purpose flour + 1/2 cup for dredging: Flour gives structure to the batter while the extra for dredging helps create that golden crust.
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar: Balances the tang of the cheese with a touch of sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all other flavors, keeping the pancakes well-rounded.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Adds warmth and subtle spice that complements the apple perfectly.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Works as a gentle leavening agent for light, fluffy pancakes.
- 1 tsp white vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to give a nice rise and tender crumb.
- 1 medium apple (peeled, cored, and finely diced, about 1 1/2 cups): Brings fresh sweetness and a lovely texture contrast.
- Light olive oil (or canola/vegetable oil): Needed for sauteeing and getting those beautifully golden edges.
How to Make Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apples (Syrniki) Recipe
Step 1: Mix Your Batter
Start by combining the farmers cheese, eggs, flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Using an electric hand mixer on medium speed, blend these ingredients just until smooth. This initial mix sets the stage for those wonderfully tender pancakes you’re about to create.
Step 2: Activation Time
In a small ramekin, stir together the baking soda and vinegar—watch the fizz! Pour this bubbling mixture into your batter. This little chemical reaction is what makes the syrniki light and airy. Fold in the diced apples gently with a spatula. Letting the batter sit for a moment will help it thicken up just right.
Step 3: Prepping the Pan and Batter
Heat your pan over medium-low heat and add a good 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil. Meanwhile, pour 1/2 cup of flour into a shallow bowl. Scoop up a heaping tablespoon of batter, then sprinkle flour generously on top. Gently lift the pancake and pat it between your hands to shake off excess flour—this little step ensures a golden crust without being cakey.
Step 4: Cooking the Syrniki
Place the pancakes in the hot oil, cooking for about 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s time to flip when tiny bubbles start to form on the surface. This slow, steady cooking over medium-low heat is the trick to perfectly cooked, golden brown pancakes with a tender middle.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once cooked, transfer your Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apples (Syrniki) to a platter. Serve them while still warm and get ready for a taste sensation that’s creamy, sweet, and oh-so-good.
How to Serve Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apples (Syrniki) Recipe
Garnishes
These pancakes love a good topping. Think about dollops of rich sour cream, a generous spoonful of fruit preserves or jam, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a subtle sweetness. Fresh berries or a drizzle of honey elevate the experience further.
Side Dishes
For a full breakfast spread, pair your syrniki with crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast. A side of fresh fruit salad or a simple yogurt parfait works beautifully too, balancing the richness of the cheese pancakes.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not stack these pancakes high for a brunch centerpiece? Layer them with cream cheese and fruit compotes in between for a make-believe cake. Or try folding in different fruit, nuts, or even a splash of vanilla extract for delightful variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra pancakes, cool them completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their softness well and are just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apples (Syrniki) freeze wonderfully! Place cooled pancakes on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They keep well for up to one month, making them an easy grab-and-go treat.
Reheating
Reheat syrniki gently in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to bring back their golden crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use regular cottage cheese instead of farmers cheese?
While cottage cheese is wetter and less dense, you can substitute it by draining excess liquid first. The texture won’t be quite as firm, but the pancakes will still turn out flavorful.
What type of apple works best in this recipe?
Feel free to use any apple variety, but firmer, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide a nice contrast to the sweet-sour cheese base.
Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour, adjusting the amount as needed for batter consistency.
Is it necessary to add baking soda and vinegar?
Yes, the reaction between baking soda and vinegar introduces airiness and tenderness to the pancakes, making them lighter and fluffier.
What should I serve with Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apples (Syrniki) Recipe for a brunch party?
Besides classic toppings, consider sides like smoked salmon, fresh herbs, or a variety of jams and spreads. They offer a nice balance between sweet and savory flavors.
Final Thoughts
Making these Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apples (Syrniki) Recipe is like inviting a little comfort and sweetness onto your plate. They’re wonderfully simple to prepare, unique in flavor, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re starting your day or treating yourself to an afternoon delight, give these syrniki a try—you might just find a new favorite recipe to share with those you love.
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Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apples (Syrniki) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 5 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Eastern European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple, also known as Syrniki, are a delightful Eastern European breakfast treat. These fluffy, slightly sweet pancakes incorporate creamy farmers cheese and tender diced apples, resulting in a perfect balance of flavors. Lightly spiced with cinnamon and enhanced by the fizz of baking soda and vinegar for extra fluffiness, these pancakes are pan-fried to a golden brown and best served warm with jam and sour cream.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups farmers cheese (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
For Cooking
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
- 2 to 3 Tbsp light olive oil, canola or vegetable oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of farmers cheese, 4 large eggs, 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Using an electric hand mixer on medium speed, blend the ingredients just until fully combined.
- Activate the leavening: In a small ramekin, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 teaspoon of white vinegar. The mixture will fizz, indicating activation. Pour this immediately into the cheese batter and gently mix until well blended.
- Add the apples: Fold the finely diced apple pieces into the batter using a spatula. Since the apples add moisture, the batter will thicken slightly as it rests.
- Prepare to cook: Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-low heat and add 2 to 3 tablespoons of light olive oil or your preferred cooking oil to coat the surface.
- Form the pancakes: Pour about a heaping tablespoon of batter at a time into a shallow bowl containing 1/2 cup of flour. Generously sprinkle flour over the top of the batter portion, then gently lift and pat the pancake between your hands to remove excess flour. This helps prevent sticking during cooking.
- Cook the syrniki: Place the pancakes in the hot pan and sauté for about 3 minutes per side over medium-low heat. Flip each pancake when tiny bubbles start forming on the top surface and the bottom turns golden brown.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked farmers cheese pancakes to a platter and serve warm. They are traditionally enjoyed smothered with jam and sour cream for a delicious and comforting breakfast or brunch treat.
Notes
- Farmers cheese can be substituted with ricotta or well-drained cottage cheese if unavailable.
- Adjust sugar to taste or substitute with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent the pancakes from sticking and ensure easy flipping.
- If the batter is too sticky, add a little more flour to make handling easier.
- Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in a pan or microwave.
- Feel free to add vanilla extract or nutmeg for additional flavor variations.
