Fluffy, tender, and full of rich cottage cheese flavor, these apple cheese pancakes (known as syrniki in Eastern Europe) are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional pancakes. Made without added flour, they rely on semolina for structure, giving a soft yet dense bite. This recipe, enhanced by the sweetness of apples and hints of vanilla, is a perfect choice for breakfast, dessert, or even as a nutritious snack.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Cottage Cheese: 600 grams (5-9% fat)
• Egg: 1 large (or just the yolk if preferred)
• Sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Semolina: 2.5 tablespoons (about 50 grams)
• Vanilla Sugar: 1 packet
• Salt: a pinch
• Apples: 200-300 grams (about 1.5 medium apples), softer varieties are ideal
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons (for shaping the pancakes)
• Vegetable Oil: 3 tablespoons for frying
• Optional: Cinnamon or raisins to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese, egg (or egg yolk), sugar, semolina, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt.
2. Mix Well: Use a fork or spoon to mash and blend the ingredients until you have a smooth, uniform mixture. If desired, use a hand mixer to make it extra creamy.

Step 2: Add the Apples

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel the apples and grate them using a coarse grater. Softer apples work best as they integrate into the batter more easily.
2. Incorporate the Apples: Gently fold the grated apples into the cottage cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
3. Optional Additions: If you want to add cinnamon or raisins, mix them in now for extra flavor.

Step 3: Form the Pancakes

1. Divide the Dough: Use a spoon to scoop out portions of the dough. Each portion should be around the size of a golf ball.
2. Shape into Patties: With lightly floured hands, shape each portion into a small, thick patty. Dust both sides with flour to prevent sticking.
3. Rest for a Few Minutes: Let the patties sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the semolina to absorb moisture. This will help them hold their shape during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Pancakes

1. Heat the Oil: In a non-stick skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Fry Until Golden: Carefully place the patties in the skillet, leaving space between each one. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
3. Drain on Paper Towels: Remove the cooked syrniki from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate and Garnish: Serve the apple cheese pancakes warm. They pair well with sour cream, fresh berries, honey, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 140 kcal
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Sodium: 50 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these gluten-free?

• Yes, you can replace the semolina with a gluten-free version or fine cornmeal. Use gluten-free flour for shaping.

2. What type of cottage cheese is best for this recipe?

• Cottage cheese with 5-9% fat content works well. Avoid using low-fat cottage cheese as it may make the pancakes less creamy.

3. Can I bake these instead of frying?

• Absolutely. You can bake them at 180°C (350°F) on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

4. How should I store leftovers?

• Store any leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips for Making Perfect Syrniki

• Use a Fork for Mixing: This helps to maintain a slightly coarse texture in the cottage cheese, adding to the pancake’s richness.
• Control Moisture with Semolina: If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a bit more semolina, which absorbs extra moisture without altering the flavor.
• Form Patties with Floured Hands: This prevents the mixture from sticking and makes it easier to handle.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if needed, ensuring each pancake has enough space to cook evenly.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Place leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
• Freezing: To freeze, layer the cooked pancakes between parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• Reheating from Frozen: Reheat directly from frozen by placing them in a non-stick skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Conclusion

These Fluffy Apple Cheese Pancakes are an ideal choice when you’re craving something comforting yet nutritious. Their soft, fluffy texture and subtly sweet flavor make them a hit for breakfast or a light dessert. With the added freshness of grated apples and optional spices like cinnamon, they offer an exciting twist on traditional syrniki. Enjoy these delectable pancakes on a cozy morning, or freeze a batch to have on hand for busy days. Happy cooking!