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
Scale
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.
