Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple (Syrniki): A Delightful Breakfast Treat

If you’re on a quest for a breakfast dish that’s both comforting and delightful, look no further than Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple, affectionately known as Syrniki. These pancakes are a staple in Eastern European cuisine, cherished for their creamy texture and subtle sweetness. The addition of apples brings a refreshing twist, adding a fruity aroma that pairs beautifully with the creamy farmer’s cheese. This recipe will guide you through creating these delectable pancakes, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast treat.

Ingredients

Servings: 4 to 5

• 2 cups farmers cheese, homemade or store-bought
• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 3 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 medium apple, any variety, peeled, cored, and finely diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
• Light olive oil, canola, or vegetable oil, for sautéing

Instructions

Preparing the Batter

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the farmer’s cheese, eggs, 3/4 cup of flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Use an electric hand mixer on medium speed to mix the ingredients until they are well blended. The mixture should be smooth but slightly thick.

2. Activate the Baking Soda: Place the baking soda in a small ramekin and add the vinegar. Stir to combine, allowing the mixture to fizz. This reaction is crucial as it helps the pancakes become light and fluffy. Pour the fizzy mixture into the batter and mix until well incorporated.

3. Fold in the Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The batter will thicken slightly as it stands, thanks to the absorption of moisture from the apples and the flour.

Cooking the Pancakes

4. Prepare for Frying: Heat a large non-stick pan over medium/low heat and add 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil. Meanwhile, fill a shallow bowl with the remaining 1/2 cup of flour for dredging.

5. Form the Pancakes: Use a heaping tablespoon of batter (a flat ice cream scoop works well for consistent sizing) and place it into the dredging flour. Sprinkle flour generously over the top, then gently lift the pancake and pat it from one hand to the other to remove any excess flour.

6. Sauté the Pancakes: Place the floured pancakes into the hot oil. Sauté them over medium/low heat for about 3 minutes on each side. Flip the pancakes when you notice tiny bubbles forming on the surface, indicating that the bottom is cooked and ready to be turned.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the cooked pancakes to a platter. These pancakes are best enjoyed warm, smothered in your favorite toppings such as jam and sour cream. The combination of sweet jam and tangy sour cream complements the creamy and fruity flavors of the pancakes perfectly.

Tips for Success

• Choosing the Right Apple: Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties based on your preference. Granny Smith apples offer a tart contrast, while Fuji or Gala apples provide a sweeter note.
• Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough to create a sizzle when the batter hits the pan, but not too hot that it burns the pancakes. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain an even cooking temperature.
• Serving Suggestions: Syrniki can be served with a variety of toppings such as honey, maple syrup, or fresh berries, in addition to the classic jam and sour cream.

Conclusion

Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple are more than just a breakfast dish; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that bring warmth and comfort to your dining table. Whether you are familiar with Eastern European cuisine or trying Syrniki for the first time, this recipe promises to become a cherished addition to your breakfast repertoire. Enjoy the delightful blend of creamy cheese and crisp apples, and don’t forget to top them generously with jam and sour cream for the ultimate treat!

Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple (Syrniki)

Delight in these fluffy and tangy Farmers Cheese Pancakes with Apple, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: Eastern European

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pancake Batter

• 2 cups farmers cheese homemade or store-bought
• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cups all-purpose flour plus 1/2 cup for dredging
• 3 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 medium apple any variety, peeled, cored and finely diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
• as needed ml light olive oil, canola or vegetable oil to sautee

Equipment

• Non-stick Pan

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, combine farmers cheese, eggs, flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Mix with an electric hand mixer on medium speed until well blended.
2. In a small ramekin, mix baking soda and vinegar. Pour into the batter and mix until well blended. Fold in diced apples.
3. Heat a large non-stick pan over medium/low heat and add 2 to 3 Tbsp oil.
4. Fill a shallow bowl with 1/2 cup flour. Add batter a heaping tablespoon at a time. Sprinkle flour over the top, then pat from one hand to another to remove excess flour.
5. Saute in hot oil over medium/low heat about 3 min per side, flipping when bubbles form on top.
6. Transfer to a platter and serve warm with your favorite topping such as jam and sour cream.

Notes

Serve these pancakes smothered in jam and sour cream for a truly delicious experience.