Go Back

Syrniki (farmer’s cheese pancakes)

This is my favorite recipe for syrniki (farmer’s cheese pancakes). It is so easy to whip up these delectable, fluffy Russian cheese pancakes for a scrumptious breakfast delight. Pancakes are traditional in America; in Eastern Europe, they’re syrniki! 
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 21 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: european, russian, ukranian
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 500 grams  of farmers’ cheese 
  • 50 grams of semolina (Manka)
  • 2 tbl flour plus more for dusting- you can use all-purpose flour
  • 2-3 tbl sugar- depending how sweet you want them
  • pinch of salt
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tsp  vanilla extract or vanilla sugar
  • 1/3 cup golden raisins (optional)
  • oil for frying- light olive oil or avocado oil

Equipment

  • frying pan
  • Large bowl
  • mixing tool: fork or hand mixer
  • ice cream scooper

Method
 

  1. Add the farmer’s cheese in a large bowl and break it up with a fork to ensure there aren’t any big clumps of cheese. Then add the rest of the ingredients and mix it very well until you get a smooth batter. The syrniki batter will be thick. You can use a fork or a handheld mixer (I prefer to use a fork because I like the little clumps of cheese)
  2. Flour a cutting board, then use an ice cream scoop to portion the syrniki. This will help to get beautiful and even syrniki throughout. Place the batter into your palm and roll it into a ball. Place the syrniki on the floured board and use the bottom of a glass to slightly press down on it to give it it’s shape. You want the syrniki to still be thick but with flat tops. Dust flour on top and the sides. 
  3. Heat a large pan on medium heat, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of oil, and fry the syrniki for 3 minutes on both sides or until golden brown. Place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil, dust with powdered sugar, and Enjoy while they are warm! 
    Serve (farmer’s cheese pancakes) with fresh berries, fruit preserves, maple syrup, sour cream, or Greek yogurt!