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Syrniki Russian Cheese Pancakes

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Syrniki are traditional Russian pancakes crafted with farmer’s cheese, yielding a creamy, tender center and golden crust. The dough combines crumbly cheese, eggs, flour, sugar, and a hint of salt for balance, with optional raisins for sweetness. Each patty is shaped by hand and dredged in extra flour before shallow frying. Syrniki are best enjoyed warm, topped with sour cream, honey, or preserves. Use a dry, brick-style farmer’s cheese for ideal texture and flavor. Don’t overcrowd the skillet, and serve these pillowy treats for breakfast or as a satisfying afternoon snack.

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Casey
Updated on Wed, 04 Jun 2025 09:16:00 GMT
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This fluffy cheesy syrniki recipe brings a taste of Russia and Ukraine right to your breakfast table With just a few ingredients you can enjoy a golden crust and creamy center that pairs perfectly with your favorite toppings Whether you drizzle with maple syrup or dollop with tangy sour cream these pancakes always bring comfort

I remember the first time I made syrniki for my grandmother She closed her eyes after the first bite and said it tasted just like her childhood in Kyiv Now it is a recipe I reach for on slow weekends when I want something pillowy and nostalgic

Ingredients

  • Farmers cheese: brings the rich and creamy foundation for classic syrniki Choose a brick style cheese that is dry and crumbly for the best texture
  • Eggs: bind everything together and add structure Use fresh eggs for best results
  • All purpose flour: gives the pancakes their soft doughy texture Unbleached flour makes the most tender cake
  • Sugar: brings just a touch of sweetness and helps the pancakes brown
  • Salt: balances the flavor and keeps the cheese from tasting bland
  • Raisins: are optional but add bursts of sweetness Try golden raisins for a more delicate taste
  • Vegetable oil: is used for frying Use a neutral flavored oil like sunflower or canola so the cheese flavor shines

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Batter:
In a large bowl use a fork to crumble the farmers cheese into small pieces Make sure your cheese is well drained and dry so the dough will form easily Mix in the eggs until smooth Add half a cup of flour sugar and salt then mix until a thick dough forms not a runny batter If you choose to add raisins fold them in now
Shape the Pancakes:
Pour the reserved flour into a small bowl This is for dredging Scoop about a quarter cup of dough and gently flatten with your hands until you have a thick patty Roll the patty in flour on both sides to prevent sticking and set aside Repeat with the remaining dough
Fry the Syrniki:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium low heat Once the oil shimmers gently add the floured patties with a spatula Do not crowd the pan Fry for four to five minutes per side until the pancakes turn golden brown and crisp Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to cool so they keep their crispness
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Choosing the right cheese really does make or break syrniki My favorite is from a local market in the form of a dense crumbly brick The first time I made these my little one bit in and immediately asked for more with a big cheesy grin That feeling does not get old

Storage Tips

Keep leftover syrniki in the fridge for up to three days They warm up best with a quick toast in a dry skillet to restore their crispy edges You can also freeze them on a tray then transfer to a freezer bag so you have a stack ready for busy mornings

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find farmers cheese try a very well drained ricotta or cottage cheese Press out as much liquid as possible through a cheesecloth The key is to keep the dough thick and shapeable For a dairy free version I once swapped in a plant based cheese and while the texture changed it still made a delightful breakfast

Serving Suggestions

Syrniki are delicious with just powdered sugar but I love serving them Russian style with dollops of sour cream and a spoonful of berry preserves My kids prefer honey or whipped cream and sometimes I even top mine with fresh berries for a special treat

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Cultural Context

Syrniki have been a breakfast favorite across Eastern Europe for generations They are deeply rooted in home cooking traditions often prepared by grandmothers on chilly mornings This simple humble recipe tells the story of comfort and celebration in every bite

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cheese is best for syrniki?

Farmer's cheese with a dry and crumbly texture is ideal. If the cheese is too wet, strain it until firm to prevent the batter from getting too soft.

→ Can I add raisins to the syrniki?

Yes, raisins add natural sweetness and texture. Simply fold them into the cheese batter before shaping the pancakes.

→ How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking?

Dredge each piece of dough in flour before frying, and use enough oil in the skillet. Cook on medium-low heat for even browning.

→ What toppings go well with syrniki?

Classic options include sour cream, fruit preserves, honey, maple syrup, or fresh berries. Choose your favorite sweet or tangy toppings.

→ Is it possible to make syrniki ahead of time?

Absolutely. Cooked syrniki can be refrigerated and reheated gently in a pan or microwave. They also freeze well for later enjoyment.

Syrniki Russian Cheese Pancakes

Soft, cheesy syrniki made with farmer’s cheese, lightly fried and served with sour cream or fruit jam.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes
By: Casey


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Russian

Yield: 12 pancakes

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 lb farmer's cheese, dry and crumbly
02 2 eggs
03 ½ cup all-purpose flour, plus ½ cup divided for dredging
04 ¼ cup sugar
05 ¼ teaspoon salt
06 ½ cup raisins (optional)
07 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Step 01

In a large bowl, crumble the farmer's cheese into small pieces using a fork. Ensure it is strained if not already crumbly. Add eggs, ½ cup flour, sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly, breaking apart any clumps. Add raisins if desired. The batter should resemble a thick dough.

Step 02

Place ⅓ cup flour in a small bowl for dredging. Scoop ¼ cup of dough, flatten it into a patty using your hands, and coat both sides with flour. Shake off any excess flour and set aside.

Step 03

Heat 3-4 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Place the dredged cheese pancakes in the skillet with a spatula. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Cool on a paper towel-lined plate. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Step 04

Serve sprinkled with powdered sugar, or drizzled with maple syrup, honey, or whipped cream. For a traditional Russian experience, pair with sour cream and fruit preserves.

Notes

  1. Ensure the farmer's cheese is dry and crumbly; strain if necessary to avoid adding excess flour.
  2. Use an ice cream scoop with a squeeze-release handle for easy portioning of dough.
  3. Dredging the syrniki in flour prevents them from sticking to the pan.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large bowl
  • Fork
  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Paper towels
  • Fine-mesh colander (if needed)
  • Ice cream scoop (optional)

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (farmer's cheese)
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains gluten (all-purpose flour)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 133
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 10 g
  • Protein: 7 g