Cottage Cheese Pancakes (Syrniki)

By Muhammad Faizan

Cottage Cheese Pancakes (Syrniki)

Description

These Cottage Cheese Pancakes are tender on the inside and golden crisp on the outside — a wholesome, protein-packed breakfast or snack. Originating from Eastern Europe, they combine the richness of cottage cheese (or farmer’s cheese) with a hint of sweetness and make a delicious alternative to regular pancakes. Serve them with honey, jam, or fresh fruit for a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Serves: 4 (makes about 10–12 pancakes)
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins

  • 1 cup cottage cheese (or farmer’s cheese/ricotta)

  • 2 large eggs

  • 3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

  • 1 cup flour (you can use all-purpose or oat flour)

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • Pinch of salt

  • 2 tbsp oil or butter (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Batter:
    In a large bowl, mash the cottage cheese lightly with a fork. Add eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Mix well until smooth.

  2. Add Dry Ingredients:
    Combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to the wet ingredients and stir until a thick batter forms.

  3. Rest Batter (Optional):
    Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly.

  4. Heat Pan:
    Heat oil or butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.

  5. Cook Pancakes:
    Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of batter per pancake into the pan. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.

  6. Fry Until Golden:
    Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

  7. Serve Warm:
    Serve hot with sour cream, honey, maple syrup, or your favorite fruit topping.

Notes

  • If your cottage cheese is very wet, drain excess liquid before mixing.

  • For extra fluffiness, add 1 tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream to the batter.

  • You can replace sugar with honey or mashed banana for a natural sweetener.

Tips for Success

✅ Don’t overmix the batter — a slightly lumpy texture makes the pancakes tender.
✅ Cook on medium-low heat so the inside cooks before the outside browns too much.
✅ Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: ~220 kcal

  • Protein: 14g

  • Fat: 9g

  • Carbohydrates: 18g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Calcium: 12% DV

(Values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands.)

Health Benefits

  • 🥛 High Protein: Cottage cheese provides slow-digesting casein protein, perfect for muscle recovery.

  • 🍳 Low in Sugar: Naturally sweetened or lightly sugared, suitable for balanced diets.

  • 🧠 Rich in Calcium: Promotes strong bones and teeth.

  • 💪 Energy Boosting: Ideal for breakfast or post-workout fuel.

Q&A

Q: Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
A: Yes! Ricotta makes them slightly creamier and lighter in texture.

Q: How can I make them gluten-free?
A: Use oat flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Q: Can I bake instead of fry?
A: Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.

Q: Can I freeze these pancakes?
A: Absolutely! Freeze in a single layer, then reheat in a skillet or toaster oven.

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