🇷🇺 Russia · Dessert
Syrniki
By eatmundo · September 8, 2026
🇷🇺 RUAI-generated imageThese delicate pan-fried cottage cheese pancakes are a quintessential Russian comfort food. They offer a perfect balance of a slightly crisp exterior and a tender, creamy center.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Place 500g cottage cheese in a bowl and mash it well with a fork until most large curds are broken down.
- 2
Add 1 large egg, 50g sugar, 5ml vanilla extract, and 2g salt to the cheese, mixing until the batter is uniform.
- 3
Gently fold in 100g flour; do not overmix, or the pancakes will become dense rather than fluffy.
- 4
Form the dough into small, thick patties about 2cm thick, dusting them lightly with extra flour if they stick to your hands.
- 5
Heat 30ml vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but does not smoke.
- 6
Place the patties in the skillet, ensuring they have room to breathe, and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- 7
Lower the heat slightly if the outside browns too fast before the center is cooked through.
- 8
Transfer the cooked syrniki to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil before serving warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Syrniki?+
Syrniki are pan-fried quark or cottage cheese pancakes popular in Russia and Eastern Europe. They are typically served for breakfast or dessert with sour cream, jam, or fresh berries.
Which cheese should I use?+
Use a dry, firm cottage cheese or quark. If your cheese is too wet, drain it through a cheesecloth first to prevent the pancakes from falling apart.
How do I keep them from sticking?+
Use a good quality non-stick pan and ensure the oil is properly heated before adding the patties. Do not flip them until they have formed a solid crust.
Can I bake them instead?+
Yes, but they will lack the signature crisp crust of the fried version. If baking, place them on parchment paper at 180°C for about 20 minutes.
Why did my pancakes fall apart?+
The most common reason is too much moisture in the curd or adding too little flour. Always ensure your cheese is well-drained and the ratio of flour is correct.
🇷🇺 RUAI-generated imageMundo Match
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