Syrniki

Syrniki hold a special place in my heart, as they were a beloved treat during my childhood in Ukraine. These tender, slightly sweet cottage cheese pancakes were a staple in our home, often served for breakfast or as a snack, topped with a variety of delicious accompaniments like sour cream, jam, or honey. Now, living in the United States, I still make Syrniki whenever I want to bring a bit of that comforting nostalgia back into my kitchen.

This recipe yields perfectly golden, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside Syrniki that are just as good as I remember. The freezing step is key to keeping their shape during frying, and it also allows you to make them in advance, ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes. Whether you’re new to Syrniki or looking to recreate a cherished taste from home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

lngredients:

1 kg dry cottage cheese
3 egg yolks
150 g powdered sugar
110 g all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg yolks, powdered sugar, flour, and vanilla extract. Mix until you have a thick, cohesive mass.

Portion the Dough

Measure out 50 g portions of the mixture. Dust your work surface with flour and roll each portion into a ball.
Using an 8 cm ring mold, place a ball inside the ring and, using a circular motion, press it down to create a flat surface for your syrnik. Flip it over and repeat the same motion with the ring on the other side.
Place the shaped syrnik on a tray lined with parchment paper. Repeat the process for the remaining dough. You should get about 24 pieces from this recipe.

Freeze the Sirniki

Cover the tray with plastic wrap and place the syrniki in the freezer for at least 1 hour.

Note:Freezing helps the syrniki hold their shape during frying. You can also freeze them for up to 1 month—just make sure to transfer them to an airtight container after the initial freezing.

Cook the Sirniki

Preheat a pot or skillet over medium heat and generously spread butter all over the surface.
Place the syrniki in the skillet and fry them for about 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C).
Once fried, place the syrniki on a tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 15 minutes.