How should I store leftover Syrniki?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze Syrniki?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

What can I use in place of farmer’s cheese?

You can substitute it with quark or well-drained ricotta for a similar texture.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

What is a good gluten-free flour substitute?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to maintain the texture.

Velvety Russian Syrniki with Berry Compote and Sour Cream

Name: Velvety Russian Syrniki with Berry Compote and Sour Cream
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Dessert
Ingredients: Farmer’s cheese; Eggs; Granulated sugar; Vanilla extract; All-purpose flour; Salt; Oil; Mixed berries; Sugar; Lemon juice; Cornstarch slurry; Sour cream; Fresh mint leaves

Traditional Eastern European Fried Cheese Pancakes

Delight in these airy Russian pancakes made with creamy farmer’s cheese, perfectly complemented by a sweet-tart berry compote.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Syrniki

Farmer’s cheese

1 lb, well-drained

Eggs

2 large

Granulated sugar

1/4 cup

Vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon

All-purpose flour

1 cup, divided

Salt

Pinch

Oil

For frying

For the Berry Compote

Mixed berries

1 cup (fresh or frozen)

Sugar

3 tablespoons

Lemon juice

1 teaspoon

Cornstarch slurry

1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water

For Serving

Sour cream

To taste

Fresh mint leaves

For garnish

Preparation

Preparing the Syrniki

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the farmer's cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Incorporate flour

Gradually incorporate 3/4 cup of the flour and salt into the cheese mixture until a soft dough forms.

Shape the patties

Use the remaining flour for dusting as you shape the dough into small patties.

Do not overwork the dough; it should remain slightly sticky. If the dough is too sticky, lightly coat your hands with flour while shaping the patties.

Making the Berry Compote

Cook the berries

In a saucepan, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat.

Simmer

Stir occasionally until the berries release their juices and the sugar dissolves.

Thicken the compote

Add the cornstarch mixture, stirring until the compote thickens, then remove from heat.

Cooking Process

Syrniki Frying

Heat a thin layer of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Fry patties until golden brown on both sides and cooked through.

Compote Boil

Bring the berry mixture to a gentle boil to thicken properly.

Finishing Touches

Serve your Syrniki with a generous spoonful of berry compote and a side of sour cream.

Plating & Serving